The UK government is developing a murder prediction program that uses algorithms on personal data to identify individuals most likely to commit murder.
The project is called "sharing data to improve risk assessment." It aims to enhance public safety.
The existence of the project was uncovered by Statewatch via Freedom of Information requests.
Project Details
The program analyses data from thousands of individuals, focusing on those known to authorities.
Originally named the "homicide prediction project."
Allegedly uses data including personal information about self-harm, domestic abuse, and possibly from individuals not convicted of crimes.
Officials claim data is only used for those with at least one conviction.
Criticism and Concerns
Critics, including campaigners and Statewatch, describe the project as chilling and dystopian.
Concerns about bias against minority-ethnic and poor communities.
Fear that algorithmic systems will perpetuate existing systemic biases within the criminal justice system.
Government's Position
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) claims the project is for research purposes only to potentially improve risk assessments.
It is designed to use existing data from HM Prison and Probation Service and police forces.
A report will be released in the future detailing the findings.
Data Sources
Information processed includes details from the police national computer.
Data types include names, dates of birth, gender, ethnicity, and special categories like mental health and addiction.
Data from Greater Manchester police prior to 2015 is utilized.
Opposition's Argument
Statewatch highlights the risks of using data from individuals seeking help or with no convictions.
Concerns over privacy and the ethical implications of using sensitive data.
Quotes
Sofia Lyall, Statewatch researcher, criticizes it as "chilling and dystopian," pointing out risks of reinforcing biases.
Conclusion
The project aims to enhance public safety through better risk assessment but faces significant ethical and privacy concerns.
The government insists it remains a research initiative at this stage.
Related Topics
Crime prediction tools
Algorithmic bias in policing
Privacy and data protection in the criminal justice system