Federal Law Enforcement’s Progressive Adoption of Artificial Intelligence

Federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, TSA, and NCIS, are integrating artificial intelligence cautiously yet effectively. The focus is on enhancing data analysis, operational efficiency, and ethical standards, with significant advancements stemming from past operational challenges, particularly the need for quick data processing after the Boston Marathon bombing. AI applications are being developed to aid in investigations, improve operational practices, and support a careful and measured approach to technological adoption across federal law enforcement agencies.

Artificial intelligence is making waves in federal law enforcement, according to experts from agencies like the FBI, TSA, and NCIS. Speaking at the AFCEA Bethesda LEAPS Preview event on April 17, the panel emphasized a careful integration of AI technologies, given the sensitive nature of their work. Though they tread lightly, AI’s potential for improving operations is evident as law enforcement looks to enhance their business applications through automation and machine learning.

The FBI’s push to embrace AI was notably influenced by challenges faced during the Boston Marathon bombing investigation in 2013. Kiersten Schiliro from the FBI’s Operational Technology Division recalled how overwhelming it was to sift through thousands of hours of video footage. “That was the first large event where we had thousands of hours of video from the public CCTV cameras, and we just weren’t set up at that time to go through it quickly,” she said, describing how necessity drove innovation.

In response, the FBI developed the Multimedia Processing Framework (MPF), which allows investigators to rapidly triage vast amounts of visual data. “We ended up developing a pretty decent capability out of that requirement,” Schiliro continued, noting the time saved now—down from almost a year to just two days for processing massive video sets. The FBI’s sophisticated AI applications now play a vital role in data analysis.

Beyond video analysis, the FBI is also tackling child victim cases more effectively with AI. Schiliro explained that traditional databases often miss child victims, necessitating the use of facial recognition technology. “In those cases where we are having trouble identifying either a victim or the subject, we will have to conduct [facial recognition technology] searches,” she said. The accuracy of these searches has proven high, emphasizing their crucial role in saving lives.

Meanwhile, the TSA is diving headfirst into AI with support from the Department of Homeland Security. Kristin Ruiz, TSA’s deputy CIO, described how they’re equipping existing staff to adopt AI skills. “We don’t need to necessarily add additional staff to leverage this emerging technology,” she explained. The agency is exploring partnerships to maximize resources and achieve economies of scale in AI integration.

One promising tool in the TSA’s toolkit is the TSA Answer Engine, designed for employees in the field to retrieve operational information quickly. Ruiz mentioned how the Innovation Lab helps foster AI understanding, noting an intriguing use of virtual reality and ChatGPT in training scenarios—providing TSA agents unique, situation-based experiences during practice that mirror unpredictable real-world encounters.

Across the National Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), AI is also progressing—although it’s starting small. Richard Dunwoodie, acting executive assistant director at NCIS, said they are looking cautiously at how to employ AI for investigative and policy navigation efficiency. “We are starting small,” he said, emphasizing the importance of safe implementation.

NCIS is exploring how AI can aid in everything from identifying human subjects to vehicle recognition. They’re collaborating with the Department of Defense to vet AI solutions, taking a measured approach to integrating technology into their operations. Dunwoodie stressed the importance of adhering to safety standards while harnessing robust tools readily available to them.

As they strive to innovate responsibly, Schiliro shared that the FBI has established checks and balances. The agency reviews its AI applications rigorously for privacy and civil liberties, undergoing ethics reviews by the AI Ethics Council. “We have been very cautious,” she asserted. Both she and Dunwoodie recognize that as they explore AI’s vast potential, maintaining ethical standards is paramount to ensuring safety and efficacy in law enforcement.

In summary, federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, TSA, and NCIS are cautiously embracing artificial intelligence to enhance their operations. The FBI’s MPF exemplifies innovation sparked by necessity, while the TSA leverages existing personnel to adopt AI in creative ways. NCIS, too, is exploring AI with a focus on safety and ethics. Ultimately, as they venture into this rapidly evolving field, ensuring the protection of public trust and civil liberties remains a top priority.

Original Source: www.afcea.org