First AI Officer Named, as New Technology Challenges U.S. Justice Department

By Moon Harper

Feb 22, 2024 11:58 PM EST

The U.S. Justice Department names its first AI official dedicated to addressing the significant impact AI could have on federal law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

Naming the Department's First Chief AI Officer

Jonathan Mayer, an assistant professor at Princeton University specializing in national security, consumer privacy, and criminal procedures, has been appointed Chief Science and Technology Adviser and Chief AI Officer who will work in the DOJ's Office of Legal Policy, as per the department.

Attorney General Merrick Garland says that the Justice Department needs to keep pace with fast-changing scientific and technological advancements to uphold the law, ensure national security, and safeguard civil rights.

Department of Justice's Goal in AI Regulation

Mayer will counsel Garland and department leaders on emerging technology matters, including the responsible incorporation of AI into department investigations and criminal prosecutions.

U.S. officials are grappling with reducing the risks of a loosely regulated and quickly growing technology while aiming to capitalize on its potential advantages.

Existing AI Utilization in Combating Crimes

The DOJ and officials from other departments are discussing ways to reduce AI-related risks while also exploring its potential benefits, says Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in a recent speech in Britain.

The DOJ has also employed AI to locate the sources of certain illegal drugs and has utilized the technology in its investigation of the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, as reported by Reuters.

Rising Concerns on AI Risk within the Justice System

Monaco mentioned that the technology could aid in detecting and preventing terror plots and hostile actions from U.S. adversaries. However, she expressed concerns about its potential to reinforce existing biases, interfere with elections, and create new opportunities for cybercriminals, saying that every new technology is a "double-edged sword." Still, AI may be the sharpest blade yet.

Paving a Way to an AI-Backed Department

With a law degree and a Ph.D. in computer science from Stanford University, Mayer will lead a new Emerging Technology Board consisting of law enforcement and civil rights officials and advise the DOJ regarding the ethics and effectiveness of AI systems. Mayer, who previously worked for the Federal Communications Commission and served as the technology adviser to Vice President Kamala Harris when she was a U.S. senator, will also recruit more technology experts for the DOJ.

Garland stated that Jonathan's expertise will be crucial in preparing the entire Justice Department, including law enforcement, litigation, grantmaking, and U.S. Attorneys' Offices, for the challenges and opportunities brought by new technologies.

The Office of Legal Policy's mission is to create and execute the Justice Department's major policy initiatives, manage special projects involving various Department components, collaborate with other Department units and Executive Branch agencies, and advise the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General on policy matters.