An investigation by Gizmodo and The Markup revealed that predictive policing software used by law enforcement agencies disproportionately targets low-income areas and communities of colour. The technology, which includes software developed by PredPol, analyses crime statistics, 911 calls, and other data to determine where officers should deploy scarce resources. Reporter Aaron Sankin highlighted that algorithm predictions clustered in Black, Latino, and lower-income neighbourhoods, while white and higher-income areas were not recommended for equal scrutiny. The resulting increase in police presence in these areas leads to more frequent interactions between officers and local residents, which can turn negative.

Background: Predictive Policing and Risk Scoring

← Back to the news feed