The Role Of AI In Predictive Policing: Balancing Crime Prevention And Civil Liberties
- IJLLR Journal
- Apr 19
- 2 min read
Ms. Mydhili A Nair, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Delhi NCR
I. INTRODUCTION
The intersection of law enforcement and technological innovation has given rise to complex challenges and unprecedented opportunities, none more so than in the domain of predictive policing powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Predictive policing refers to the use of data- driven algorithms to anticipate potential criminal acts, identify high-risk areas, and assess individuals who may be involved in unlawful conduct. Predictive policing algorithms utilize complex statistical models and machine learning techniques to analyse vast datasets, aiming to forecast potential criminal activity.1 The underlying premise is that by analyzing vast quantities of historical crime data, law enforcement agencies can engage in pre-emptive measures, thereby enhancing the efficacy of public safety efforts and optimizing resource allocation. The emergence of AI has significantly augmented the predictive capacities of law enforcement agencies. Through advanced machine learning models, pattern recognition, and statistical inference, predictive policing tools are capable of generating forecasts that purport to identify when and where crimes are likely to occur. Jurisdictions such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and several European nations have piloted or operationalized predictive systems like PredPol, HART (Harm Assessment Risk Tool), and COMPAS (Correctional Offender Management Profiling for Alternative Sanctions). These tools claim to reduce crime by enabling strategic interventions before offenses transpire.
However, the deployment of such technologies has raised substantial legal and ethical concerns, particularly in relation to constitutional safeguards, due process guarantees, and the protection of fundamental rights. A principal concern lies in the risk of perpetuating systemic discrimination through algorithmic bias. Predictive policing systems rely heavily on historical crime data, which is itself often marred by decades of racially biased policing practices,
