Public perceptions of generative AI–assisted policing: Effects on trust, legitimacy, fairness, and accountability

This study examines public perceptions of generative AI–assisted policing and its effects on trust, legitimacy, fairness, accountability, and public acceptance of law enforcement practices. Using a between-subjects experimental survey design, participants are randomly assigned to scenarios involving human-only police report writing, AI-assisted report writing with disclosure, or AI-assisted report writing without disclosure. Grounded in procedural justice theory and research on algorithmic decision-making, the study explores whether transparency regarding AI use influences public perceptions of policing and whether factors such as prior trust in police, familiarity with AI, and concerns about algorithmic bias shape these perceptions. The study contributes to emerging research on generative AI in criminal justice by examining how AI-assisted policing may affect public trust and legitimacy.