Citizen Crime Livestreams vs. Local Journalism

Citizen App's Covert Hiring of Journalists

The Citizen crime-watch application is reportedly engaging journalists through third-party platforms to livestream events at crime scenes, offering a rate of $25 per hour. This practice has raised concerns regarding transparency and responsible reporting.

Early History and Rebranding

Initially launched in 2016 under the name Vigilante, the app initially aimed to promote transparency in fighting injustice. However, it was removed from the App Store due to concerns it could encourage users to put themselves in dangerous situations.

Following its removal, the platform rebranded as Citizen, added disclaimers discouraging interference with active crime scenes, and was subsequently reinstated to the App Store. It continued to secure venture capital funding.

Functionality and Potential Issues

Citizen now functions as a crowd-sourced crime blotter, notifying users of potential incidents even before police response. This hypervigilance, however, carries the risk of inducing panic and disseminating inaccurate or potentially biased information.

The app utilizes data from 911 calls, but acknowledges that not all information received through these dispatches is immediately verified, potentially leading to unwarranted alarm.

Reported Practices and Concerns

Citizen maintains that it filters suspicious person reports and verifies user-submitted content through trained analysts. Despite this claim, past actions, such as a $30,000 reward offered by CEO Andrew Frame for information on a suspected arsonist – based on incorrect information – raise questions.

Maintaining a substantial user base has become increasingly challenging for Citizen, leading to more assertive recruitment strategies.

The "Street Team" and Livestreaming

Reports surfaced in June 2020 indicating a surge in app downloads coinciding with the Black Lives Matter protests. However, download numbers subsequently declined.

Investigations revealed that individuals livestreaming from multiple crime scenes, such as users named “Landon” and “Chris,” were actually employed by Citizen as part of a “Street Team.”

Citizen confirmed the existence of these teams, stating their purpose is to demonstrate the platform’s functionality and promote responsible broadcasting practices.

Recruitment Practices and Compensation

While Citizen asserts the Street Team’s existence has always been transparent, job postings are not listed on the company’s website. Instead, they are advertised through third-party recruiters like Flyover Entertainment on journalism job boards.

Compensation for Street Team members is $250 per day for a 10-hour shift in Los Angeles and $200 per day for an 8-hour shift in New York City, equating to $25 per hour.

Concerns Regarding Journalism and Transparency

Citizen argues that employing broadcast journalists ensures safe and responsible reporting. However, the decision to advertise these positions through third parties, rather than directly on their website, raises questions about transparency.

Critics argue that Citizen is not a substitute for traditional local journalism, and the app’s covert job postings contradict its stated commitment to transparency.

The "Protect" Subscription Service

Citizen recently introduced a paid subscription service, "Protect," priced at $19.99 per month. This service allows users to share their location and livestream video to a "Protect Agent."

These agents, comprised of former law enforcement and 911 operators, promise an “instant emergency response.” This service has been criticized as a potentially inadequate alternative to effective policing.

Broader Implications and Potential Solutions

The situation raises broader questions about the role of technology companies in addressing complex societal issues like police brutality, racial profiling, and surveillance.

Some suggest that addressing the root causes of crime – such as lack of access to healthcare, employment, and affordable housing – may be a more effective long-term solution.

Update 7/27/21, 2:45 PM EST with additional response from Citizen.