Government to deploy AI to catch criminals before they strike – UKTN

The government aims to use AI technology to launch a mapping system to predict where and when violent crime is expected to occur before it happens.

In an announcement reminiscent of the dystopian science fiction thriller Minority Report, Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has called on tech developers to create a detailed, real time interactive crime map across England and Wales.

The map in theory would detect, track and predict where knife crime is likely to occur as well as spot signs of anti-social behaviour early on, giving police intel ahead of dangerous situations.

Kyle said the technology will be rooted in advanced AI. The government has set aside a £4m investment for the prototype, with hopes of it being delivered by April 2026.

“Cutting-edge technology like AI can improve our lives in so many ways, including in keeping us safe, which is why we’re putting it to work for victims over vandals, the law-abiding majority over the lawbreakers,” said Kyle on a visit to the Metropolitan Police.

“Our police officers are at their best when they join up to prevent crime rather than react to it, and R&D can deliver crucial tools for them to stay one step ahead of potential dangers to the public and property.”

The tech challenge is part of the Safer Streets Initiative to tackle crime in urban centres and follows a recent challenge from the Tech Department for developers to produce systems to lower energy costs.

“We welcome the announcement of this challenge which will bring together experts and practitioners at the cutting edge of crime, data and technology, to create an operational mapping system which we hope will enable people to feel safer and more secure in their homes and local neighbourhoods,” said John Hayward-Cripps, chief executive of Neighbourhood Watch.

This week the Home Office rolled out 10 live facial recognition camera vans as part of a wider government push to use technology in service of law enforcement. The rollout was criticised by civil rights and privacy advocates.

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