Technology drives progress in every field, and it’s helping criminal justice professionals make significant strides in identifying and apprehending suspects, keeping tabs on offenders, and more. Here we’ll look at how technology is transforming all sectors of the criminal justice system, including some controversies and issues related to its use. 

Investigation 

Forensic Algorithms 

Working in tandem with law enforcement, crime scene investigators are forensic specialists who collect and assess evidence using technology. Recent studies have employed different types of forensic algorithms to determine the identities of individuals of interest, including: 

  • Probabilistic genotyping, which compares DNA evidence from a crime scene to that of a suspect. 
  • Latent print analysis, which can quickly search large databases of fingerprints and impressions from other body parts. 
  • Facial recognition, which combs large databases for a match, sometimes in combination with human efforts. 

These algorithms have a strong accuracy record and low incidence of bias due to limited human involvement, but some agencies lack the training, technology, and other resources required to harness these tools. 

Law Enforcement 

Drones 

Law enforcement personnel are increasingly employing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly referred to as drones. In fact, American law enforcement agencies used 54% more drones in 2024 than they did in 2018. These camera-equipped tools assist police in duties from locating suspects and missing people to performing reconnaissance prior to planned operations.  

Drones can quickly cover more ground than officers on foot and can easily access areas such as roofs, treetops, and hilltops. They keep law enforcement personnel safe by allowing them to monitor potentially dangerous situations from a distance. However, drones may also raise privacy concerns for individuals not involved in police investigations. 

Shot-Locating Sensors 

A gunshot can come from any direction, and its sound can echo off surrounding structures, creating confusion about its point of origin. To address this, law enforcement agencies are now using shot-locating sensor technology to pinpoint the location of snipers or others who are endangering the public in cities from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Washington, D.C. 

Though some of these systems have purported accuracy rates of 97%, they’re not without controversy. The installation of hundreds of microphones in public places has prompted debates about privacy, and the choice of locations for the microphone-equipped sensors can be contentious, as residents of those areas may feel unfairly targeted. 

Courts 

Virtual Courtrooms 

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, some courts had never tried cases remotely. Practically overnight, many of them adopted technology that has enabled them to hold hearings and hear cases online. By early 2021, Texas judges had held more than one million court hearings remotely.  

The technology used included cameras, microphones, and videoconferencing applications—tools that became very familiar to many during the pandemic. Brick-and-mortar courtrooms had to have some of these tools installed.  

Some courts reported unanticipated benefits of virtual courtrooms, including increased efficiency and greater participation, though concerns about unequal access to the virtual option have been raised. Like many workplaces, courts are shifting to a hybrid arrangement as the health landscape changes, with judges typically choosing their venue. 

Corrections 

AI-Powered Security Robots  

Standing at nearly six feet tall, AI-driven robots outfitted with night vision technology, heat detectors, and 360-degree cameras are gliding through the halls of a Cobb County, Georgia, jail, supplementing the efforts of the human security personnel who work there. These robots operate mostly autonomously but can be controlled by humans when necessary.  

GPS Ankle Monitoring Devices 

GPS technology isn’t just for navigation. It’s now informing probation officers when a probationer or parolee with an ankle monitoring device has crossed the borders of their monitoring area or isn’t where they’re supposed to be when they’re supposed to be, such as at home right after work. These GPS devices are more versatile than their older radio frequency counterparts. 

Learn Criminal Justice From Field Insiders 

Criminal justice is a multifaceted field that’s equally challenging and rewarding. The University of Texas Permian Basin offers online undergraduate and graduate degrees that can set you up for success in a variety of related careers, whether you’re eager to enter the field or ready to advance beyond your current role. 

Both programs are led by faculty who’ve worked in a diverse range of roles within criminal justice and can give you an insider’s perspective of the field. And there are other benefits: 

  • Review the latest techniques and technology in the field. 
  • Complete coursework from any location. 
  • Finish your studies on a flexible schedule that accommodates your professional and personal commitments. 
  • Enjoy some of the lowest tuition rates among accredited universities. 

Let’s take a closer look at these programs: 

Online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies 

This program provides a thorough introduction to core criminal justice principles alongside a foundation in varied general education subjects. You’ll explore the structure and key components of the justice system, theoretical perspectives on crime, and topics essential for starting a career in public service.  

See where graduates of this UTPB criminal justice program are working. 

Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration 

If you’ve already completed a criminal justice or related bachelor’s degree, immerse yourself in current issues as you develop the skills to pinpoint problem areas and implement strategies that protect both your organization and the community. No GRE or thesis is required for this program, which you can complete in as little as one year. 

See where graduates of this UTPB criminal justice program are working. 

Apply to your choice of program today! 

Sources: 

https://www.soundthinking.com/faqs/shotspotter-faqs/

https://www.thomsonreuters.com/en-us/posts/government/future-of-law-enforcement-technology/

https://www.americanbar.org/groups/judicial/publications/judges_journal/2017/fall/basics-technologyenhanced-courtroom/