politics

Heber City Police Explore AI Reporting with Draft One Software Trial

Heber City Police Department is testing AI software for police reports, demonstrating both the capabilities and challenges of AI-generated documentation during a recent trial involving a fabricated narrative.

Featured image for article: Heber City Police Explore AI Reporting with Draft One Software Trial
The Heber City Police Department has initiated a pilot program to test AI-driven reporting software that generates police reports from body camera footage. The solutions under consideration include Draft One and Code Four, both developed by Axon, aimed at improving efficiency in documentation for law enforcement. In an engaging demonstration conducted in November, Sgt. Josh Weishar invited Park Record reporter Cannon Taylor to put Draft One through its paces. The test involved a fabricated scenario wherein Taylor reported a fictional crime while being recorded by an Axon body camera, allowing the software to transcribe the audio and compile a report. During the test, Taylor deliberately crafted a convoluted and unusual incident, raising concerns over how accurately the AI would interpret the bizarre narrative. The scenario included imaginative elements such as a mysterious woman armed with a gun and a reference to a 'dark knight,' introducing phrases and terms meant to challenge the software's comprehension capabilities. The initial attempt at running through the incident faced complications due to technical issues—an incorrect body camera was used, and as a result, no recording was accessible for generating a report. After switching to Weishar's assigned camera and repeating the exercise, the report was quickly assembled and reviewed. Remarkably, the AI's output was noted for its accuracy, aligning closely with the actual dialogue exchanged, much to Taylor's surprise. The reporting system allows officers to insert additional details during the report's generation, which must be reviewed and approved by a supervisor prior to final submission. During the demonstration, it became evident that while Draft One demonstrated strong performance, the accuracy of reports is largely influenced by the quality of information provided by the officer. Concerns about how the software would perform in varied environments—such as noisy outdoor settings—were also raised, drawing parallels to challenges faced by other transcription tools. Weishar's narrative handling during the report further emphasized the collaborative nature between technology and human oversight in effective policing. As the Heber City Police explore the full potential of these software solutions, they aim to enhance operational efficiency without compromising the standards required in law enforcement documentation.