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The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has urged police forces to review their AI policies, warning that unclear guidance could leave officers and staff facing misconduct investigations without realising they have done anything wrong.
The watchdog has written to the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) after receiving referrals from forces involving allegations that officers and staff had used AI in ways that breached force policies or guidance.
IOPC Director General Rachel Watson warned that staff who use AI in an attempt to work more efficiently could inadvertently commit misconduct if they do not understand the rules governing its use.
“There is a risk that police officers and staff, believing they are doing the right thing by using AI, perhaps to speed up a process, could end up being investigated for misconduct because they don’t know or understand what’s allowed.”
Rachel Watson, IOPC Director General.
Watson said all forces should have robust AI policies that clearly set out the conditions of use, with guidance regularly communicated to staff and reviewed as the technology develops.
She also stressed that policies must reflect operational realities, with practical procedures, visible leadership support and training that helps officers and staff understand how to use AI appropriately.
The IOPC is currently conducting two independent investigations into allegations of gross misconduct linked to AI following conduct referrals. Other AI-related misconduct investigations have been handled locally by police forces, including cases that did not previously involve an IOPC referral.
Watson said the growing use of AI could create uncertainty for professional standards departments when deciding whether allegations should be referred to the watchdog.
“If there is any doubt then it is prudent to refer the matter to us so that our specialist assessment team can review the circumstances and offer advice,” she said.
The IOPC said its aim was not to discourage innovation, but to help policing adopt AI safely and effectively while reducing the risk of avoidable mistakes and maintaining public confidence in how the technology is used.
Watson said AI had the potential to bring significant benefits to policing, but stressed that its use must be fair, transparent and supported by appropriate safeguards.
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