The Role of Technology in Law Enforcement and Predictive Policing
摘要
There are two key innovations in policing that revolutionized the profession, and both are connected: the advent of CompStat (short for computerized statistics) and specific forms of technology for investigative and surveillance purposes. In 1994, the New York City Police Department developed and implemented the CompStat program, which permitted the real-time crime mapping of criminal incidents, disorder, and traffic accidents. Once crime, disorder, and traffic safety hotspots had been identified, the strategic deployment of police resources could take place. In 2014, the New York City Police Department additionally provided patrol and investigative personnel with the technological tools to enhance service delivery and improve crime control and investigative measures. These options include drones, automatic vehicle license plate readers, and audio monitors capable of identifying gunshots in public spaces. Related constitutional issues have been raised and will be discussed.