To help break down language barriers, the East Lansdowne Police Department has begun to use new artificial intelligence technology, writes Madeleine Wright for CBS News Philadelphia.
The department is utilizing body cameras that translate conversations in real time using AI. Officers can now communicate more clearly with witnesses, suspects, and victims who can’t speak English.
After New Dollar Star & Plus was burglarized, store manager Huai Dong had some difficulty answering the officers’ questions.
“It’s hard to describe,” said Dong. “Sometimes people come in here, stealing, you know, so police officer will ask me like what happened, what time that happened?”
This new technology is life-changing for those in situations similar to Dong’s.
Police previously relied on translation apps to help facilitate communications, which resulted in slower exchanges that were not conducive to critical situations.
The AI body cameras used by the department can translate 50 languages instantly, making conversations easier for everyone involved.
“I think every department should get these,” said East Lansdowne Police Officer Bhavin Patel. “It’s a great investment to have on the job.”
Since rolling out the body cameras six months ago, the department has already seen improvements, helping to build trust in the community and solve cases more efficiently.
Read more about the new AI body cameras used by the East Lansdowne Police Department in CBS News Philadelphia.
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