(The Center Square) – Ohio is turning to artificial intelligence to help the public report suspicious activity and potential threats of violence.
In the wake of the Wednesday assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and the June killing of a Minnesota lawmaker, the state launched the new Safeguard Ohio app Friday.
It’s the country's first criminal justice tip-reporting app to use artificial intelligence in a new way.
“Events that threaten the safety of Ohioans can be hard to predict, but they can be prevented with help from timely, detailed tips from the public,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “This new app simplifies the process to get information to law enforcement quickly and conveniently.”
The app, developed by Ohio Homeland Security and private partner Vigiliti, uses artificial intelligence to encourage users to provide as much information as possible to law enforcement.
Users can upload video, audio and photos and remain anonymous.
Ohio’s previous online reporting system required people to fill out a form.
Information submitted to the app is reported in real time to the Statewide Terrorism Analysis and Crime Center, where analysts are expected to immediately review information and notify law enforcement authorities.
There are eight categories of tip-reporting, including drug-related activity, human trafficking, terrorism, school threats and crimes against children.
“The AI-infused prompts are essential components of this new system,” said Mark Porter, OHS executive director. “We will get the high-quality intelligence we need to act on a tip through this new system. The AI is trained to keep asking questions until the person reporting says they have no more information about the incident.”
After reporting, users will receive a unique QR code specific to that incident that allows for follow-up information. The app can also take reports in 10 languages.
“One of the best attributes of this new system is the ability to upload video and photos,” Andy Wilson, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, said. “More and more people these days – especially our younger generation – don’t like to talk on the phone. This new reporting method will result in more detailed information being shared with the authorities.”