Data Cop Out

On the Media | Jun 23, 2016

Weather, moon phases, locations of schools and churches -- these are all factors considered in predictive policing, a practice of analyzing crime data and uncovering patterns that may give patrol officers a leg up. Nowadays, predictive policing is powered by expensive and privately developed software, which is used by more than 150 police department across the country. While media outlets and police celebrate lower crime rates, critics argue that programs like HunchLab may not be able to claim responsibility -- especially considering very little research exists on their efficacy. Deb speaks with The Marshall Project’s Maurice Chammah, who isn't convinced HunchLab works. He visited Jennings, Missouri, a city neighboring Ferguson, to find out whether this supposedly unbiased software is really helping law enforcement do their jobs.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

WNYC Homepage - Top Stories

Exclusive renderings of Penn Station overhaul show Trump's name with presidential seal

The images show gold-accented railings, columns and escalators, and a new structure around Madison Square Garden.

Gothamist |

Mamdani's First "Neighborhood-Level" Housing Plan

David Brand discusses Mayor Zohran Mamdani's “South of Prospect Plan."

The Brian Lehrer Show |

The U.F.C. President, Dana White, on Donald Trump: “He’s Not a Racist”

White discusses his relationship with the President, the upcoming match on the White House South Lawn, and why he thinks he’s above politics.

The New Yorker Radio Hour |

Episode 4 of American Emergency; The Movement to Kill FEMA

FEMA’s uncertain future. Plus, what happens when the next disaster strikes?

On the Media |