How Do Sergeants and Officers Perceive AI-based BWC Review Technology? Evidence from 6 Months of Survey Data

• In Event: Organizational Dynamics and Individual Discretion: A Top-Down Assessment of Police Practice and Perception (Sponsored by Division of Policing)

Abstract

There is a growing interest in the utility of artificial intelligence (AI) in policing. This is particularly true for the review process of body-worn camera (BWC) footage. The vast majority of BWC footage is not reviewed or seen by anyone. AI based technology provides a mechanism to efficiently process 100% of the footage produced by BWCs that can then be used for a variety of purposes (e.g., rewarding professionalism, training, coaching, etc.). The present study is a part of a larger multi-site randomized control trial among three departments in Arizona that seeks to evaluate the implementation of Truleo, an AI based natural language processing software that analyzes BWC footage audio. Here, I focus on two police departments – Apache Junction and Casa Grande. I use weekly and monthly survey data that captures perceptions of the Truleo platform for Officers and Sergeants, respectively. I examine if attitudes towards the Truleo technology have changed over time. I present preliminary findings that provide important insights from line-level officers and immediate supervisors. The findings have implications for departments who are seeking to implement this technology.

Author

• Seth Watts, Arizona State University