Experts Warn of Slippery Slope Towards ‘Predictive’ Crime Prevention with Police Use of AI

Experts recently speaking to Fox News Digital revealed that an AI pilot program to enhance police capabilities in the U.K. had shown promising results. Experts further noted that it could potentially lead to a future of “predictive policing.” According to Christopher Alexander, the CCO of Liberty Blockchain, artificial intelligence is a useful and deadly tool. Alexander believes that the real goal here is to improve predictive analytics capabilities. However, if these capabilities become more advanced, it could result in some very alarming outcomes.

AI Program Help Police in Catching Traffic Offenders

The British police have embarked on an innovative pilot program using an AI-powered system. This tech-focused on detecting and catching drivers breaking traffic regulations. The program caught drivers using their phones while driving or not wearing seat belts. The penalty for phone use while driving could lead to a fine of £200 ($250).

The trial took place over a week at different sites in East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, catching 239 drivers, according to reports by the BBC. Another trial in late 2022 conducted in Devon and Cornwall caught 590 drivers who were not wearing seat belts over a 15-day period.

The system’s permanent implementation would require the installation of more cameras. According to a spokesperson, vehicles like trailers on the roadside should have cameras and equipment for weeks or months.

AI Misuse

Brian Cavanaugh did not fail to express concerns about the potential misuse of AI by surveillance-heavy countries like the United Kingdom. He cautioned that adding AI to current systems could increase state control.

Cavanaugh urged that the government employ data and AI to comprehend crime trends. Government can then use this information to allocate and deploy resources sensibly. He underlined the need to keep human judgment for policing strategy. He believes that society will be better off if AI never replaces officers.

The featured image is from news.ubc.ca