\n
The New Haven Police Department is taking a significant step forward by proposing the introduction of artificial intelligence-written police reports, a decision recently endorsed by the Board of Alders’ public safety committee. This innovative approach, aimed at enhancing efficiency, will still require police officers to certify all reports line-by-line.
\n
The proposed agreement includes a comprehensive $7.6 million contract with Axon, intended to equip the department with hundreds of new dashboard and body cameras along with upgraded tasers and a sophisticated array of software tools. These tools will encompass audio and video transcription, video playback, virtual reality training options, and Draft One, which is Axon’s AI system designed to reduce the time officers spend on report writing.
\n
\n
“This technology will save officers multiple hours every week by automatically drafting police report narratives based on body-worn camera audio,” stated New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson in his correspondence to the Board of Alders.
\n
\n
During discussions at the public safety committee meeting, Jacobson revealed that officers typically dedicate over two hours to writing reports during their eight-hour shifts, a process that Draft One could potentially streamline by up to 65 percent. According to estimates from Axon, officers may spend up to 40% of their work hours on report writing.
\n
The implementation of this AI technology will start with a select group of officers utilizing Draft One to create reports from audio recorded via body cameras, ensuring that each piece of information is verified. Initially, the program will focus on generating reports related to stolen vehicles and property damage, before expanding to include arrest reports. After a monitoring period of three to six months, the efficiency and accuracy of AI-generated reports will be compared to traditional officer-written ones.
\n
\n
Jacobson highlighted the inclusion of a “failsafe” provision in the contract to secure a refund in the event that Draft One does not meet performance expectations.
\n
\n
Alder Brian Wingate, the committee chair, acknowledged prior acquaintance with the Draft One technology during a recent industry event. He expressed caution but noted that a trial run seemed worthwhile.
\n
As AI technology continues to evolve, legal experts emphasize the importance of maintaining accuracy and accountability in AI-generated reports, particularly in comparison to those prepared by human officers. Jacobson has been collaborating with State Attorney John Doyle to ensure that reports produced using Draft One will be legitimate and acceptable in court.
\n
Previously, the New Haven Police Department’s contract with Axon, which lasted five years and was valued at $5.7 million, ended in 2021. Should the Board of Alders approve the new proposal, the contract will extend from April 2025 through June 2030. Axon, recognized for its innovations in law enforcement technology, operates from Scottsdale, Arizona.
- 0 Comments
- AI Reports
- Axon
- Draft One
- New Haven Police
- Police Technology