The police department's request for secrecy regarding its phone hacking technology raises troubling questions about accountability and transparency. Concealing such capabilities from public scrutiny can undermine the principles of a just and open society. Citizens have the right to know about tools that can impact their privacy and civil liberties. Openness ensures that law enforcement actions are subject to oversight and prevent potential abuses. Balancing law enforcement's needs with safeguarding individual rights is crucial, and open dialogue is necessary to maintain public trust. Any attempt to keep surveillance technology hidden from public knowledge must be evaluated against the broader principles of justice, accountability, and respect for individual rights.