MILWAUKEE — A Milwaukee police officer faces criminal charges after allegedly using the department's automated license plate reader technology to track a person he was dating and that person's ex.
A criminal complaint alleges Officer Josue Ayala ran the license plates of two people dozens of times each while on duty, using the department's Flock technology — an automated license plate reader that can track vehicles across the city.
One of the people Ayala allegedly tracked was someone he was dating. The other was that person's ex.
The Milwaukee Police Department said it became aware of the allegation against Officer Josue Ayala in December. At that time, Ayala was placed on full suspension while the Internal Affairs Division conducted an investigation.
On Tuesday, the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office filed criminal charges against Ayala. If convicted, he could face up to nine months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
Ayala remains on full suspension pending a tentative resignation agreement with the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office.
“I am extremely disappointed to learn about the incident and expect all members, sworn and civilian, to demonstrate the highest ethical standards in the performance of their duties. If a member violates the code of conduct, they will be held accountable,” said Chief Jeffrey Norman. “I want to remind the public that everyone is afforded the right of due process under the law, and as such, are innocent until proven guilty.”
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