Using Artificial Intelligence in Law Enforcement and Policing to Improve Public Health and Safety
Abstract
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) policing tools and geo-profiling into contemporary law enforcement strategies has revolutionized analysis of concerning behavior, offering unprecedented precision in the identification of psychological risk factors and predictive crime analysis. AI's sophisticated pattern recognition capabilities, powered by machine learning algorithms, enable the dissection of vast datasets to uncover complex behavioral trends, latent correlations, and risk indicators often imperceptible to human cognition. This analytical depth enhances law enforcement's ability to identify links between disparate criminal activities, forecast potential threats, and shift from reactive to proactive crime prevention. Complementing AI's prowess, geo-profiling employs spatial analysis rooted in criminology, psychology, and geographic information systems (GIS) to elucidate crime patterns, identify hotspots, and predict offender anchor points. The synergy between these technologies augments investigative efficiency and mitigates cognitive biases inherent in traditional profiling through data-driven objectivity. Moreover, the implications of AI and geo-profiling extend beyond criminal justice, significantly impacting public health and safety. By enhancing crime detection and enabling early intervention, these technologies contribute to reducing violence-related injuries, mitigating psychological trauma, and fostering resilient communities. Police organizations can leverage AI-driven insights to deploy targeted interventions addressing the root causes of violence, such as socio-economic disparities and mental health challenges. This conceptual study explores the transformative potential of AI and geo-profiling in crime prevention, emphasizing their role in advancing public safety, promoting health equity, and informing data-driven policies. Ultimately, these innovations represent a paradigm shift in law enforcement and public health, fostering integrated approaches to address the multifaceted challenges of modern crime and its societal impacts.
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