Auditor says Minn. police's data use has problems
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A state audit says that Minnesota law enforcement agencies need to tighten employee access to statewide databases to curb repeat abuse.
The Office of Legislative Auditor released its audit Wednesday, reporting that 88 law enforcement officers improperly accessed driver's license data in 2012. The audit also found some misuse of the state crime database.
The auditor recommends that law enforcement increase training and establish better controls for who can use the databases.
The findings don't include a recent incident in which a DNR officer accessed driver's license data belonging to thousands of Minnesotans, mostly women. That employee has been fired and is facing misdemeanor charges.
Two state lawmakers introduced a bill last month that would restrict access to state databases and boost penalties for those who abuse sensitive information.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.
