Gregzen

DNA sample to be taken from students before SAT college entrance exams

2012-01-26T22:45:00.000-08:00

With the increasing ubiquity of computers, smart phones, and other electronic devices comes a torrent of "digital DNA," which can be used to record an individual's every move and even convict them of a crime
With the increasing ubiquity of computers, smart phones, and other electronic devices comes a torrent of “digital DNA,” which can be used to record an individual’s every move and even convict them of a crime.
Digital DNA is everywhere. From frequent shopper cards to digital photos, EZPass toll booth technology to emails, and smartphones to Word documents, every time an individual uses technology a digital stream of evidence is left behind that law enforcement agencies can use to trace their actions.
“Digital evidence is the new DNA,” said Ira Victor, a forensic analyst with Data Clone Labs and a member of The High Tech Crime Investigator’s Association (HTCIA).
As digital DNA becomes more prevalent, privacy advocates fear that it could lead to abuse.

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LAPD And Special Forces Conduct Military Maneuvers In The Skies Above Downtown LA

2012-01-26T22:17:00.000-08:00

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — The Los Angeles Police Department teamed with military special operation forces Wednesday evening to conduct multi-agency tactical exercises in the skies above downtown LA.

Many questioned what was going on Wednesday night as a Black Hawk helicopter and four OH-6 choppers – or “Little Birds” – flew over the city, at one point hovering just above the US Bank building downtown and later flying low over the Staples Center as the Lakers played inside.

Someone could be seen sitting inside an open chopper with his legs hanging off the side.

Sky9 spotted the Black Hawk in the dark, making what appeared to be a drop off at a park before quickly ascending back into the air.

Throughout the exercise, the five rotorcrafts were staged at Dodgers Stadium.

The LAPD said the purpose of the training was in part to ensure the military’s ability to operate in urban environments.

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LAPD And Special Forces Conduct Military Maneuvers In The Skies Above Downtown LA « CBS Los Angeles

San Antonio Implements Bus rules

2011-11-06T22:31:00.001-08:00

"It is a violation to commit the following acts on a VIA vehicle, VIA facility or VIA property:

Smoke or expel the residue of any tobacco product including chewing tobacco on a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle or at a VIA facility or on VIA property, except as allowed in designated areas.
Consume any alcoholic beverage or possess an open container of any alcoholic beverage on a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle or at a VIA facility or on VIA property.
Eating on a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle unless medically necessary.
Drinking beverages on a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle without using a spill-proof or screw-top container.
Engage in disruptive, disturbing behavior including: loud conversation, profanity, rude insults or operating any electronic device used for sound (radio, MP3 player, etc.) without an earphone(s).
Take any animal onto a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle unless the animal’s purpose is to assist a person with a disability, or unless the animal is in training to assist a person with a disability, or unless the animal is secured in a container sufficient to contain the animal.
Carry or possess any illegal weapon.
Possess or transport any explosive, flammable liquid, combustible material or other dangerous substance such as gasoline, kerosene or propane.
Litter.
Vandalize any VIA bus or other VIA vehicle, VIA facility or VIA property by writing, marking, scribbling, defacing or causing destruction to the bus, vehicle, facility or property in any manner.
Beg, solicit or panhandle from another person.
Spitting, urinating, defecating or exposing one’s anus, breasts or genitals.
Illegally possess, use, distribute or sell any controlled substance.
Engage in any horseplay or fighting.
Ride a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle without evidence that the proper fare has been paid.
Unauthorized presence on a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle, VIA facility, or VIA property after hours of operation.
Unauthorized use of a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle, VIA facility or VIA property.
Interfering with the operation of a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle.
A person who violates one or more of these regulations may be warned and/or ordered to leave the VIA bus or other VIA vehicle, VIA facility, or VIA property immediately by a VIA Police Officer or a VIA Bus or Paratransit Supervisor. Situations where a person refuses to leave a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle, VIA facility or VIA property after being ordered to do so may be handled by VIA Police or other appropriate law enforcement agencies. In the case of a violation of Section 2.02 (a)(15), riding a VIA vehicle without evidence of having paid the proper fare, such situations may be handled in accordance with Texas Transportation Code, Section 451.0611.

This section does not seek to limit or conflict with any federal, state, or local law or ordinance; or to prevent any law enforcement agency or entity from taking any lawful action against any person on a VIA bus or other VIA vehicle, VIA facility, or VIA property."

I find these new rules of conduct fascinating. Yes indeed, because how are they going to enforce these rules?

Here in Seattle there are chronic problems with inebriates, delinquents, and just plain people with mental health issues, that make a seemingly simple bus trip across town a life changing experience.

They have not made such requirements. Simply, because they know they can't enforce them.

2011-11-06T22:20:00.000-08:00

VIA Transit Changes Bus Conduct Rules

She said she takes the bus to and from school every day and said sometimes it can be a bit adventurous.
"On occasion, there are a lot of loud people," she said. "Even with my MP3 player on, they're very loud."
But on Sept. 1, Johnston could see a change.
Watch Jennifer Dodd's Report
On Thursday, VIA CEO Keith Parker announced a new code of conduct for VIA riders.
The list includes no loud conversations, profanity or disruptive behavior.
Parker said the move was in response to complaints by several people who said they were afraid to ride VIA buses because they were scared of getting hurt.
"Our goal is to get that very small percentage of folks who don't behave properly, in compliance," said Parker.
Also on that list, the obvious items: no guns, alcohol or smoking.
The not so obvious include no drinks unless they're in a spill proof container and no food.
The code of conduct goes into effect Sept. 1. VIA officers can arrest and ticket those who don't comply.info.net/BusService/CodeOfConduct.aspx

No guns? How would the driver know? I guess the honor system works well in San Antonio. At least I hope it does, because here in Seattle it doesn't.