Accused drug dealer in Jacksonville reveals officers' investigative tools

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — More than 117 million adults are captured in a virtual lineup, meaning hundreds of law enforcement agencies can scan photos and track them.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office uses the program, called FACES.

JSO sent us this statement when we asked if they use the program: “We do, along with over 200 police agencies across the state. The system is owned by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. We have the ability to use it and do.”

An accused Jacksonville drug dealer revealed one of JSO’s investigative tools that they use on a regular basis.

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The use of FACES was revealed during a drug trial involving Willie Allen Lynch, an accused cocaine dealer on trial after police say he sold drugs to an undercover officer.

JSO confirms the FACES software was a tool in its investigative process during Lynch’s case but he was ultimately identified by their booking system.

Pinellas County created the program. They tell us you don’t have to be a criminal to be in the database that they can access Florida driver’s license photos and ID card photos.

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Action News Jax law and safety expert Dale Carson said there are pros and cons of facial recognition software.

“Once you step out of your house, your privacy is gone,” Carson said.

Carson said the technology can help lead police to criminals faster.

“The advantage to police is they can now conduct an inquiry over all of the people who look like an individual to isolate out who that person is.”

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