Derbyshire police officer under criminal investigation for using AI to 'create evidence' in multiple cases, CPS confirms

What happened

A Derbyshire police officer is under criminal investigation after allegedly using artificial intelligence systems to fabricate evidential material across multiple cases. The force confirmed the allegation of perverting the course of justice, calling the suspected misconduct the first known case of its kind in the UK. The officer, who has not been named, was removed from frontline duties pending the outcome of the inquiry. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains in its early stages.

Investigation and response

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is working closely with Derbyshire Police, and a spokesperson said prosecutors are engaging with defence teams and the courts in appropriate cases. Derbyshire Police stated:

“A criminal investigation has been launched into an allegation of perverting the course of justice after the alleged use of AI systems by an officer to create evidential material in a number of cases.”

The CPS added it would not comment further while enquiries continue.

PoliceAI launch and responsible use

The investigation coincides with the launch of PoliceAI, a new national centre for AI in policing. At the Wednesday launch, interim director Alex Murray said:

“Crime and technology are evolving rapidly. Policing must keep pace by adopting AI responsibly to catch criminals and keep people safe.”

The centre aims to guide forces on ethical deployment, though Murray had earlier warned some forces to stop using AI for court-related tasks because the technology might not be reliable enough.

Past AI missteps in UK policing

The Derbyshire case follows other AI-related controversies. Earlier this year, West Midlands Police apologised after relying on false information supplied by AI when banning fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv from a match against Aston Villa. The advice included reference to a fictional match fabricated by the AI. Separately, the Metropolitan Police used Palantir software to screen officers for misconduct, resulting in arrests for offences including abuse of authority and fraud. The incidents have intensified scrutiny of AI use in law enforcement, even as forces seek to adopt new tools.