Minority Report: A Critical Examination of Predictive Policing in Marginalized Communities

• In Event: Roundtable: Police Practice on the Streets

Abstract

This roundtable examines the impacts of technological advancements and societal progress on the evolving landscape of criminology. Technologies have become indispensable tools for both private entities and law enforcement agencies, aiding in the analysis and identification of risk factors within communities. At the forefront of this evolution is predictive policing, a methodological approach that utilizes data analysis to forecast and prevent future criminal activity. The effectiveness of predictive policing, however, relies heavily on the quality and integrity of the underlying data, giving rise to growing concerns about algorithmic biases and discriminatory practices. These embedded preconceptions can exacerbate existing societal inequalities, particularly in communities already under disproportionate scrutiny and surveillance. Consequently, this inquiry explores the ethical dimensions of predictive policing, focusing on civil liberties infringement, including privacy rights and due process considerations. The discussion goes beyond critique and adopts and intersectional lens to explore alternative frameworks for promoting advocacy, policy development, community safety, and justice, while confronting the complexities inherent in the future of predictive policing.

Authors

• Robert Mupier, Texas Southern University

• Elizabeth Ann Barnes, Texas Southern University

• Willie Neal Howard, Texas Southern University

• Larrisha "Birdie" McDonnough, Texas Southern University