SJPD using AI voice converter to address concerns over immigration actions

The San José Police Department is now using artificial intelligence to help provide updates to the city's diverse community.

Chief Paul Joseph released Tuesday a video message using AI to convert his voice into Spanish and the department plans to add more languages in future videos. The update is the latest effort from the chief to ease local fears from nationwide immigration actions.

"I believe we have community members that are afraid to report crimes because of concerns over immigration enforcement," Joseph said in a statement. "I'm willing to use any tool available, including AI to get the message out to our community that you can call San Jose Police for help, and we will not ask your immigration status. I want them to hear that message directly from me."

Joseph's message in the AI-generated video says in Spanish "The San José Police Department does not participate in immigration enforcement. Our mission is public safety for everyone."

Police said the video released by Joseph also emphasizes:

• San Jose police does not enforce federal immigration laws.
• Officers will not ask about a person's immigration status.
• Everyone can report crimes without fear of immigration consequences.

"Using advanced AI translation tools, the message is spoken in the chief's own voice in a language he doesn't speak fluently, making it more personal and easier for community members to trust and understand," police said in a news release. "The intent is not to showcase technology, but to remove language as a barrier to hearing reassurance directly from the leader of the police department."

Mayor Matt Mahan provided the following statement released by police:

"This is exactly the kind of innovation we should be leading with. Using AI to break down language barriers and connect directly with our residents is a smart, compassionate use of technology. I want to thank the San Jose Police Department for making sure every San José family, no matter what language they speak, knows they can trust and rely on their police department."

San José police Chief Paul Joseph discusses the use of artificial intelligence to help provide updates to the city's diverse community.