San Diego Police Department Is Weighing Using AI to Write Police Reports

San Diego Police Department is considering employing artificial intelligence to compose police reports, following a previous ban on the practice. The department is currently conducting research to identify a program that can assist officers and investigators in generating reports using AI technology. The aim is to optimize report writing efficiency, allowing officers to respond more rapidly to emergency calls. The potential contract for such a program is estimated to range between $500,000 and $3 million.

SDPD spokesperson Ashley Nicholes clarified that the department is currently in the exploration phase, gathering information and assessing best practices for AI-assisted police report writing. If they decide to proceed with the program, they will engage with elected officials and community members. The San Diego Police Department's decision comes shortly after they implemented a policy prohibiting officers from using non-approved AI platforms to create reports.

This policy followed the enforcement of Senate Bill 524, which mandated police departments statewide to establish policies governing AI use and maintain records of AI-generated reports for future audits.

Critics, such as Khalid Alexander, a professor at San Diego City College, express concerns about potential issues with AI-generated reports, including inaccuracies, errors, and biases. He worries about the reliance on such technology in a law enforcement context, fearing the consequences of flawed systems producing flawed outcomes.

Despite these concerns, some local law enforcement agencies, including Chula Vista Police Department and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, have already incorporated AI tools to transcribe non-emergency calls and write police reports, aiming to improve efficiency and free up resources for emergency response.