The Polk County Sheriff’s Office collaborates with Florida Polytechnic University to establish a specialised unit addressing AI-related cybercrime. The initiative aims to leverage expertise in AI to combat criminal activities and enhance public safety.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office Partners with Florida Polytechnic University to Tackle AI-Related Cybercrime
LAKELAND, Fla., June 10, 2024 – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) has announced the formation of a specialized unit aimed at addressing the growing concern of cybercrime related to artificial intelligence (AI). Developed in collaboration with Florida Polytechnic University, this new investigative unit will focus on combating AI-related criminal activities.
The initiative seeks to leverage Florida Polytechnic University’s expertise in the field of AI to provide technical and research support to law enforcement efforts. Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County emphasised the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements to effectively prevent and solve crimes.
“Modern law enforcement needs to stay ahead of the technological curve when it comes to preventing, fighting, and solving crime. With the incredible upside potential benefits of artificial intelligence, there is a downside: criminals will use the technology to commit crime,” stated Sheriff Judd. “We are proud to partner with Florida Polytechnic University to benefit from their renowned expertise and human talent to help fight crime.”
The primary objectives of the new AI investigative unit include:
- Acquiring and maintaining advanced training and tools to help identify and address AI-related crimes.
- Assisting in investigations involving AI, such as cyber harassment, identity theft, extortion, hate crimes, and other cyber offenses.
- Monitoring emerging AI technologies to either leverage their benefits or mitigate misuse.
- Staying informed on AI trends and the tactics and techniques employed by criminals who use AI for malicious purposes.
- Identifying and analysing deepfake and AI-altered media technologies designed to mislead the public.
Florida Polytechnic University will play a crucial role in supporting the operational success of the unit. The University’s students will be involved as interns, gaining hands-on experience in AI while working with law enforcement professionals. These interns are expected to provide advanced technology solutions to current PCSO systems.
Dr. Randy Avent, President of Florida Polytechnic University, highlighted the significance of this partnership. “This working partnership with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office is a natural fit for our mission to serve students and industry through excellence in education, discovery, and application of engineering and applied sciences,” said Dr. Avent. “We strive to find real-life applications to bring value to our students’ education and our community. This is one more way we are leaders in building Florida’s technology-based economy.”
The collaboration not only aims to enhance the PCSO’s ability to tackle AI-related crimes efficiently but also to provide valuable learning opportunities for students. As AI technology continues to evolve, both institutions recognise the necessity of adapting their strategies and educational frameworks to address these new challenges effectively.
This partnership marks a proactive approach to integrating educational institutions with law enforcement agencies to foster innovation and improve public safety.
