106 Iowa L. Rev. 1513 (2021)

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Abstract

Computerized gang databases have been utilized throughout the United States for decades as a way to combat gang violence, yet many people are concerned with the harmful effects for individuals who are designated as a gang member within the database. Therefore, activists have called for state reform on the use of gang databases. This Note analyzes the benefits of a gang database for law enforcement personnel and the costs to individuals who may be labeled as a gang member. It then examines current state legislation regarding the use of computerized gang databases throughout the United States. Finally, this Note proposes a model statute that states should adopt as a compromise between law enforcement agencies and gang database opponents. The proposed statute offers more safeguards to individuals while simultaneously allowing law enforcement personnel to continue to use the database as a helpful investigative tool.