Washington County sheriff’s deputies now have a new tool to help with reports.
According to the office, beginning on Wednesday, deputies will be using artificial intelligence for the next 60 days, thanks to a new pilot program.
Spokesperson Cpl. David Huey tells KATU deputies can currently use the AI writing tool for reports like mental health calls, informational reports, and crashes. However, the selected deputies that will be piloting the program can use the software for more serious cases for things like trespassing, DUII, theft, criminal driving while suspended, warrant arrest reports, and more. One thing it won’t be used for, according to Huey, is felony cases. This includes cases like rape and murder.
“I can understand why that’s going to cause some concerns when you hear that artificial intelligence word when it comes to police reports. But there are several check marks that in that report writing software that the deputy has to engage with,” Huey said of the safeguards in place with this new software.
He says the new software is a new update to the deputy’s already-worn body worn cameras. After it’s done recording, the deputy can send the video to their computer for the transcription to occur.
“It is a time-saving tool that’s going to ensure accuracy and grammar before that deputy submits the report,” Huey noted.
After the 60 days are up, both the sheriff’s office and district attorney’s office will evaluate if this is a tool that should continually be used by the department