Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
CRIME VICTIMS TOLD: TELL A BOT NOT A COP
Anger over force’s new system
POLICE are launching a new system where victims will report crimes to computer “chatbots” instead of staff.
People will contact their local force via text messages or online apps like Facebook Messenger, Whatsapp, Snapchat and Skype.
Chiefs say the “Digital 101” scheme, launching in Northamptonshire this month, will save money and reduce demand for the 101 non-emergency number. But critics say it will make the police even more remote after station closures and staff cuts.
Danielle Stone, Labour leader at Northampton council, said: “I do understand why police are trying to save money but I don’t think we should lose sight of that human touch. When we’re in trouble, we need a human being we can tell our stories to.”
Removal business owner Piper Corstin, of Kettering, added: “It is extremely concerning that they are trying to cut out the human being part. When you need to speak to an actual person you won’t be able to. A robot can’t assess the person’s situation.”
The chatbot can record details of incidents and give advice. It is able to receive evidence such as CCTV, data and text. Victims using Amazon Alexa can speak to the bot and hear its replies.
Britain’s biggest police force, the Met, is reportedly considering adopting the technology.