Law Enforcement Robots and Artificial Intelligence- Controversial and Transformative
https://www.governing.com/now/experts-discuss-the-real-risks-of-police-technology
https://www.jumpstartmag.com/are-robots-the-future-of-the-police-force/
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Law-enforcement robots have been in the news recently, and their application and presence on the police force is highly controversial. Robots were approved for use by the San Francisco police force and were given the authorization to use lethal force in 2022. This “lethal force authorization” was later revoked, but robots are serving on the police force for surveillance and apprehension purposes.
Boston Scientific robots are being trailed with artificial intelligence (AI) guidance systems that can apprehend and trace fugitives and suspects. Another example of surveillance technology being used in law enforcement is the ShotSpotter, a device installed in neighborhoods that detects gunshots and calls for law enforcement officers when a gunshot is confirmed. Robots are being trialed worldwide for police activities, and their scope of activity in law enforcement is being developed.
The public is wary of autonomous law enforcement technology that includes AI and automation. Giving the ability to track and apprehend citizens to computers is a leap of faith, even if the automation guides the system to understand how to open doors or discern gunshots from other noises. AI may also be used to predict criminal activity using data on recent trends. In essence, robots and AI can help trend and track crime while deploying force to apprehend suspects. It is a mind shift to imagine robots enforcing the law, but in time they will prove to be useful and will be another technological tool for humans to use to enforce the law.
There is little doubt that technological advances help law enforcement to be more effective and precise in the field. Technology including DNA sequencing and fingerprinting have helped convict and exonerate citizens, and robots will help as well. We need to ensure the public is safe from the deleterious effects of machine error and overuse of force when deploying these technologies to the field.