Law Enforcement Use of Artificial Intelligence for Domestic Security: Challenges and Risks

Law enforcement and intelligence agencies need information to prevent, detect, investigate and respond to crimes such as robbery, theft, murder, child pornography and terrorism to name but a few. Since artificial intelligence (AI) technology revolves around information, it appears to be the ideal partner for law enforcement agencies to use in addressing crime. Law enforcement agencies from various countries are exploring the possibilities of using AI technology for domestic security. This discussion presents an overview of some of the AI-driven technological tools law enforcement agencies may employ such as surveillance and predictive policing. Various courts in the US and UK are using AI risk assessment tools to determine the pre-trial release of a suspect, hence impacting the law enforcement pertaining to the suspects' tendency to re-offend. The use of AI technology for law enforcement is a relatively new concept. It is still in its' early stages of usage meaning it requires refinement and deliberation on whether its' use will make for better domestic security. The latter may be established by identifying some of the opportunities AI technology provides for law enforcement, the legal challenges and risks of using AI-driven tools and how government and law enforcement agencies may address these risks and challenges. AI technology is being integrated into society at such a rapid pace that it necessitates law enforcement agencies to explore the possibilities it presents, otherwise they may not be equipped to meet the challenges that face policing. Law enforcement agencies' use of AI technology represents a move towards AI-driven policing with visible being supplemented with invisible policing. The discussion will show that law enforcement agencies' use of AI technology must be approached with caution as it may exacerbate problems that existed prior to implementation if not used properly. When it comes to safety and security, members of society may be prepared to sacrifice privacy and other individual concerns for living in a safe and secure environment. However, if AI technology is not applied in an ethical manner, communities may lose trust and faith in law enforcement agencies.