Tell Police Departments: Don't Use AI to Draft Crime Reports

Police departments across the country are beginning to rely on artificial intelligence (AI) to draft crime reports—a dangerous trend that could lead to biased, inaccurate, and harmful outcomes. AI systems are only as unbiased as the data they are trained on, and in law enforcement, historical data is often riddled with systemic inequities. Using AI in this way risks perpetuating and amplifying existing disparities in policing.

Automated crime reporting raises critical concerns about transparency and accountability. When an AI system drafts a report, how can officers, attorneys, and the public trust that the information is accurate and free from bias? Errors or omissions could have serious consequences, from wrongful arrests to flawed prosecutions. Moreover, relying on AI for such a sensitive task distances law enforcement from the communities they serve and undermines public trust.

Experts warn that deploying AI in law enforcement without strict oversight and accountability measures could lead to disastrous outcomes. AI systems have been shown to reinforce racial and socioeconomic biases, and applying these systems to crime reporting threatens to embed these biases deeper into the justice system.

We call on police departments nationwide to stop using AI to draft crime reports. Instead, law enforcement agencies should focus on fostering human accountability, improving officer training, and working to build trust within their communities. Technology should enhance justice, not undermine it.

Sign this petition to demand that police departments prioritize fairness, transparency, and accountability over convenience. Let’s stand together to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically in public safety.