Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Barry Friedman
Nov 25, 2019
Barry Friedman, Director of The Policing Project at NYU School of Law, dives deep into the ethics of technology in law enforcement. He discusses the critical need for accountability amid the rise of AI and facial recognition. Friedman emphasizes community involvement in policing and the shortcomings of current data practices. He highlights the urgent need for regulation to balance law enforcement effectiveness and individual privacy rights, particularly with increasingly invasive surveillance technologies.
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Front-End Accountability in Policing
- Barry Friedman's book, "Unwarranted," focuses on the lack of democratic accountability in policing, from local departments to national agencies.
- He argues for "front-end accountability," emphasizing public input and transparency in setting policing rules and practices.
Historical Roots of Police Autonomy
- Modern police forces inherited a tradition of autonomy from civilian oversight, intended to combat corruption in the late 19th century.
- This history contributes to the current lack of public voice and accountability in policing practices.
Data Deficiency in Policing
- Police departments lack comprehensive data collection and analysis, hindering evaluation and improvement of policing practices.
- This data gap stems from outdated technology, a fragmented organizational structure, and a lack of national data standards.
