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A recent national survey of 538 public safety professionals has revealed a growing trend toward adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in law enforcement across the United States. Conducted by technology company Mark43 between October 2nd and October 23rd, 2024, the survey highlights how AI is increasingly seen as a key tool to enhance productivity, improve crime-fighting outcomes, and address operational challenges in public safety.
According to the survey, a significant 90% of law enforcement professionals now support AI, marking a 55% increase from the previous year. More than half of respondents believe AI could revolutionize productivity in their agencies, with 89% seeing it as a powerful tool to combat crime and transform public safety. Notably, the survey also shows a growing sense of trust in AI’s responsible use, with agencies recognizing its potential to bolster efficiency and resilience.
However, while enthusiasm for AI is high, cybersecurity remains a significant concern. A troubling 84% of respondents reported experiencing a cybersecurity issue in the past year, citing issues like scam calls, malware, and viruses as the most common threats. Additionally, over half of first responders reported disruptions in their Records Management Systems (RMS), which were unavailable for more than 10 hours annually due to software updates. Similar problems were reported with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, highlighting the need for more robust and reliable technologies.
The survey also revealed widespread dissatisfaction with outdated infrastructure, with nearly 70% of law enforcement agencies experiencing system outages due to insufficiently updated technology. Many expressed concern that these legacy systems could hinder responses to major events, including natural disasters, cyberattacks, and large public gatherings.
Looking ahead, Bob Hughes, CEO of Mark43, emphasized that cloud-native, data-driven systems, are vital to overcoming these challenges. By embracing these advanced technologies, public safety agencies can improve their operational efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity, and enhance their service to communities.
