DECODING JUSTICE: THE INFLUENCE OF PREDICTIVE POLICING ON REASONABLE SUSPICION AND PROBABLE CAUSE

This thesis examines the impact of predictive policing programs on the legal requisite to establish reasonable suspicion or probable cause in criminal investigations. In recent years, programs like the New York City Police Department’s Domain Awareness System have helped the police address crime trends or patterns and have served as an investigative tool for the police to serve their communities better. This thesis examines these programs and their supporting technology, the history of their evolution, Supreme Court precedent regarding the Fourth Amendment rights of individuals, and the arguments presented by those who oppose these programs. Overall, this thesis recommends that police departments with predictive policing programs bolster the program's legitimacy, foster open transparency, assume accountability, educate stakeholders, respond to stakeholders' questions and concerns, and accentuate the programs’ effectiveness in addressing crime. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies should establish independent oversight over the programs and train their officers to use the program properly. By implementing these recommendations, members of the community, as well as Fourth Amendment and civil rights advocates, may be more accepting of the use of these programs by police. ; Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited. ; Civilian, New York City Police Department