The Las Vegas Raiders and the Las Vegas Police Department are currently at loggerheads. The reason is a stadium technology based on artificial intelligence at Allegiant Stadium

The new AI system at the Las Vegas Raiders stadium was supposed to improve everyone’s safety. But the city’s police department believes that this is exactly what is being jeopardized in the work of its police officers at the stadium.

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the corresponding union have issued a statement declaring their opposition to the NFL’s access policy to certain areas of Allegiant Stadium.

The police union has also asked its officers to stop working at Raiders home games after this weekend if the new rules remain in place.

But what’s the actual reason? The NFL began using facial recognition technology at the stadium this season for people who need to show ID.

The Las Vegas Police Protective Association is concerned about this technology and fears that it will jeopardize the privacy of police officers.

Police officers’ private lives at risk?

Last season, police officers at Allegiant Stadium wore wristbands and did not have to identify themselves using facial recognition technology. A procedure that the union is also proposing for the coming season.

The police union is also concerned that the NFL wants to collect personal information such as fingerprints, addresses and telephone numbers.

In a detailed statement, the NFL spoke about the new technology, which was already tested in six stadiums last season. The league is only interested in using the access photos to verify the identity of the person. However, no other purpose is intended.

NFL sees no cause for concern

The statement also reads:

“We recognize the importance of our public safety partners and appreciate their efforts to ensure a safe environment on game days.”

It continues: “We have had productive discussions with the LVPPA and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department about our state-of-the-art, secure badge system for all employees. The badge system will enhance security at our stadiums and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to address any issues and concerns raised. “