Police Officer Suspended After Using AI to Complete Official Reports

A police officer suspended over the alleged misuse of artificial intelligence is accused of using the technology to generate documents that helped secure charging decisions in criminal cases.

Derbyshire Constabulary confirmed last week that an officer is under investigation on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. The officer, who has previously worked on rape investigations, is also alleged to have used AI software to draft victim impact statements, according to reports.

The case has emerged as police forces increasingly explore the use of artificial intelligence to reduce administrative workloads. Last week saw the launch of the PoliceAI centre, an initiative aimed at helping forces harness the technology to improve efficiency and support crime-fighting efforts.

Derbyshire Constabulary said it is working with the Crown Prosecution Service to determine whether any ongoing prosecutions may have been affected by the officer's alleged actions.

According to the Financial Times, the officer also used AI tools to prepare briefing documents for prosecutors, with the intention of strengthening applications for criminal charges.

A source familiar with the matter told the newspaper that the officer had allegedly used "good-sounding words" generated by AI to help achieve what he believed to be the appropriate outcome in cases.

The allegations have renewed concerns about the use of artificial intelligence within policing and the criminal justice system. Earlier this year, Craig Guildford resigned as Chief Constable of West Midlands Police after it emerged that AI-generated material had been mistakenly included in evidence used to justify restrictions on supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv attending an Aston Villa match.

A Derbyshire Constabulary spokesperson said: "A criminal investigation has been launched into an allegation of perverting the course of justice following the alleged use of AI systems.

"The officer concerned has been removed from frontline duties while enquiries continue. No arrests have been made."

The investigation remains ongoing.

The Johnson Partnership, Nottingham