FBI Uses AI to Combat Crime and Identify Threats

The FBI is embracing artificial intelligence as a valuable tool to combat crime and identify threats. Targeting transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels is a priority, according to Deputy Director Christopher Raia. This announcement follows the release of data showing a significant decline in violent crime rates across the country.

AI’s Role in Crime Fighting

Raia, who joined the FBI 23 years ago and became deputy director in January, stated that AI has been instrumental in recognizing credible threats. It has significantly reduced the response time from receiving tips to taking action, going from weeks to mere hours or minutes.

We’ve sprinkled in AI and now these tips rise to the top and we can get them out to the field to action,” Raia said.

The recent decline in violent crime rates is noteworthy, with the country’s murder rate reaching a 20-year low in 2025. The FBI’s annual crime report showed a substantial one-year drop, with aggravated assaults decreasing by 7.2%, rapes by 7.6%, and robberies by 18.5%.

Reasons Behind the Decline

Raia attributes this downturn to several factors, including the efforts of state and local law enforcement, strengthened border security, and a renewed emphasis on tackling violent crime.

Enhanced Efficiency with AI

AI has allowed the FBI to process vast amounts of data, eliminating the overwhelming burden on analysts. Raia noted that the FBI and other agencies previously sat on a multitude of unchecked tips, lacking the manpower to process them thoroughly.

The National Threat Operations Center has effectively used AI to identify pressing threats, freeing up resources to effectively address those in the field. For instance, in March, the quick arrest of Zachary Charles Newell in North Carolina, for making online threats, showcased AI’s utility. The automation pushed his case to the forefront, enabling a swift response by authorities.

Efforts to Safeguard Civil Liberties

Concerns about AI’s impact on civil liberties are acknowledged by Raia. He assured that the bureau maintains transparency with Congress and oversight boards to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights. The FBI has submitted over 50,000 pages of documents for review in the past year and a half.

We are not taking away the privacies or the civil liberties of Americans, whether it’s AI or any of the other responsibilities that we have as an agency,” he said.

Additionally, privacy advocates have voiced concerns about Flock Safety’s automated license plate readers, used by 6,000 law enforcement agencies. Despite data sharing concerns, Raia affirmed the importance of these technologies in investigations and locating suspects.

Collaborative Initiatives

Raia highlighted the Trump administration’s initiatives to combat drug cartels and transnational gangs. The creation of the Homeland Security Task Force in January 2025 has enhanced collaboration among the FBI, Homeland Security, DEA, Treasury Department, and Department of Defense.

Recent actions, such as the August charges against 81 alleged gang members in Puerto Rico for drug trafficking and firearms violations, reflect the task force’s efforts.