Background:
ShotSpotter, an acoustic gunshot detection technology linked to over 100 law enforcement agencies, has been found to be inaccurate. False alerts have led to the deployment of armed police in situations where no armed resistance exists, putting innocent residents at risk. The acquisition of Hunchlab in 2018 further integrates predictive policing, allowing real-time updates to patrol missions. The flawed nature of ShotSpotter raises questions about the reliability of its data and the potential for misuse.
PredPol’s False Promises:
PredPol claims to predict crime using algorithms, a notion debunked by studies. Despite its inaccuracies, the predictive policing industry is projected to be worth over $5 billion by the end of 2023. Predictive policing perpetuates existing inequalities, concentrating law enforcement efforts in specific neighborhoods and leading to further victimization of marginalized communities, particularly people of color.
A Merger: Cause for Concern:
The acquisition of Geolitica by Sound Thinking signals a consolidation of harmful technologies. When companies merge and bundle their products, cities may unintentionally deploy a suite of flawed technologies without adequate oversight. This lack of transparency and control poses risks to the public and undermines the role of elected officials.
Looking Ahead
Skepticism about the efficacy and ethics of these technologies is on the rise. Some cities and the EU have already banned predictive policing, while federal officials express concerns about its dangers. The U.S. Justice Department has been asked to investigate the disproportionate deployment of these technologies in majority-minority neighborhoods. Additionally, major customers of ShotSpotter have canceled contracts, reflecting a shift in public opinion.
Researchers are actively engaging with a major developer of data-driven police technologies to test the framework’s recommendations. The aspiration is to contribute to positive outcomes for public safety and police-community relations, moving towards a more harmonious future. As the ethical landscape of data-driven policing evolves, this framework stands as a significant step in fostering responsible development and deployment of technology for the benefit of all.
As companies consolidate, it becomes crucial to organize and resist the deployment of these technologies. The merging of Sound Thinking and Geolitica underscores the need for cities to act swiftly. The call is clear: ban predictive policing and cease the use of dangerous, inaccurate gunshot detection technology.
