Smart Policing: Ethical Issues & Technology Management of Robocops

The killing of George Floyd in the United States has drawn attention to police brutality worldwide because it was caught on video. The frequency of incidents of police brutality has resulted in mutual distrust and fear between police and citizens. Repeated stories of police violence suggest policing needs a reimagined overhaul that addresses human rights. New ubiquitous technologies point to a need for greater smart policing research, development and technology management. Surveillance cameras and robotics are considered forms of smart policing. Robocops are currently out on patrol in many jurisdictions around the world. Smart technologies have the potential to improve policing and ethical outcomes through technological objectivity. Smart policing can potentially alleviate racial bias through technology management.Many reported incidents of police brutality in the United states involve traffic stops. While there is likely a need for traditional policing in cases such as rape and murder, violent—often fatal— incidents stemming from community policing interactions should be examined. This systemic review finds that there are few studies that address this gap. The “defund the police” movement in relation to minor crimes includes the reallocation of funds toward community services and community policing. This research focuses on how police funds can be better allocated toward social services, community policing and smart policing that results in much needed police reforms.