Innocence Project and ACLU Joined Reno Casino Lawsuit
Legal groups have intervened in a case challenging the use of facial recognition technology in Reno.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Criminal Justice
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The Innocence Project and the ACLU have filed a motion to join a lawsuit against the city of Reno regarding the use of facial recognition at the Peppermill casino. The legal action follows the 2023 arrest of Jason Killinger, who was misidentified as a trespasser by the software.
Why it matters
The intervention highlights concerns over the reliance on automated surveillance for arrests, with advocacy groups arguing the city failed to provide adequate training on the limitations of the software. It underscores the potential for systemic errors when law enforcement relies on private security identification systems.
Judge Miranda Du has approved the request for advocacy groups to serve as friends of the court, while the city of Reno has requested additional time to review the filings. Magistrate Judge Craig Denney is scheduled to hear discovery motions on October 14.
The players
Innocence Project
This is a non-profit organization that works to exonerate the wrongly convicted through DNA testing and reform the criminal justice system.
ACLU
The American Civil Liberties Union is a non-profit organization dedicated to defending and preserving individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution.
Jason Killinger
He is an individual who was arrested in 2023 after being incorrectly identified as a trespasser by surveillance software.
Miranda Du
She is a judge who has authorized legal groups to join the proceedings as friends of the court.
Kathryn Nance
She is the former Reno Police Chief who provided testimony regarding the level of training provided to officers on facial recognition.
The details
Court filings allege that nearly 1,000 arrests occur annually based on Peppermill facial recognition data, where cameras scan visitors and alert security via cell phone. Former Police Chief Kathryn Nance previously testified that officers were not required to have training on the specific limitations of this technology.
Timeline
Jason Killinger was arrested in 2023 after being misidentified.
The Innocence Project and ACLU filed a proposed brief on September 21, 2026.
The city of Reno filed a response on September 22, 2026.
A hearing regarding discovery motions is set for October 14, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows a broader pattern of legal challenges questioning the accuracy and constitutional implications of using proprietary surveillance software in public policing. It reflects a growing tension between private security automation and due process protections within city jurisdictions.
Residents and casino visitors may see increased scrutiny regarding how private security databases are integrated with public police procedures. The outcome of this case could force the city to implement stricter oversight and training mandates for officers interacting with facial recognition alerts.
The takeaway
The case highlights the risks of relying on algorithm-based security software without verified oversight or training protocols. Public awareness of how personal data is processed by private businesses remains a critical step for individuals navigating modern security environments.
What happens next
Magistrate Judge Craig Denney will consider discovery motions at 9 a.m. on October 14, 2026.
Further reading
Find more analysis on the legal implications of these policies at Criminal Justice.
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