Secret DHS Unit Pulling People over Based on Their Financial Data
20 days ago
- DHS runs a unit called Predictive Intelligence Targeting Teams (PITT) that uses Americans' financial records to predict potential crimes.
- PITT shares intelligence with local police, who pull over individuals not suspected of any specific crime, using pretexts like a license plate obstruction.
- One case involved Kyle Olson, whose financial activity was analyzed; he was pulled over in Montana and later charged with a DUI, though he was transporting legal cannabis products.
- A Border Patrol agent assigned to PITT reviewed law enforcement-sensitive databases, including financial data, to build intelligence for local police.
- U.S. Customs and Border Patrol integrates automatic license plate readers into these predictive policing tactics.
- 404 Media found no instances of PITT solving past crimes; instead, they create pretexts for stops and detentions.
- Border Patrol refused to disclose specific financial activities monitored or whether warrants were obtained.
- The unit raises concerns about potential illegal data collection and violations of constitutional rights under the Trump administration.