The police using LEGO avatars to cover the faces of "suspects"

Janak9955

According to reports from the Associated Press and the Los Angeles Times, the Milpitas Police Department has been replacing the faces of suspects in mugshot photos with the iconic heads of LEGO figurines to comply with new California regulations. Since early 2023, the Milpitas Police Department has been posting on social media using LEGO avatars and emojis to cover people's faces.

However, the department recently issued a statement outlining their policy, and these modified photos have garnered widespread attention online. In an Instagram post, the Milpitas Police Department wrote, "Why hide the faces?" The post showed five people lined up, their faces covered by LEGO avatars, each with a different expression.

The post mentioned a California law that took effect on January 1, restricting departments from publicly posting suspect photos on social media. The police stated that they take pride in transparency but also respect the rights and protections afforded to everyone, including suspects, by the law. Law enforcement agencies across the United States often post photo galleries of "Mugshot Mondays" and "Wanted Wednesdays" on social media to enhance community engagement.

However, experts increasingly point out that posting these photos online may have harmful effects. These photos may lead to a presumption of guilt for those awaiting trial and could make it difficult for those seeking to move on from criminal convictions to find employment and haunt them for the rest of their lives. Under California's new law, departments must remove any mugshot photos shared on social media, including those of individuals arrested for violent crimes, within 14 days unless they are still fugitives posing an imminent threat to public safety.

LEGO noticed the Milpitas Police Department's practice of using LEGO bricks to cover the faces of "criminals" and expressed dissatisfaction, demanding that the police stop using LEGO bricks as avatars. A spokesperson for the Milpitas Police Department revealed that the practice of covering suspects' faces with LEGO avatars has been in place for several years. It is understood that they have also used emojis, Barbie dolls, and even cartoon character Shrek.

Jiger955

After all, LEGO is primarily a toy for children. Using it to cover the faces of suspects could create a predetermined impression.

Kamal531

It's indeed inappropriate.