The Justice Department has announced the appointment of its first artificial intelligence (AI) officer in a bid to address potential problems brought about by the new technology.
Jonathan Mayer, a professor at Princeton University, will serve in the DOJ’s Office of Legal Policy as chief science and technology adviser and chief AI officer. His appointment is seen as a significant step for the department as it grapples with the implications of AI on federal law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
“The Justice Department must keep pace with rapidly evolving scientific and technological developments in order to fulfill our mission to uphold the rule of law, keep our country safe and protect civil rights,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement.
Mayer, whose expertise encompasses the intersection of technology and law, will play a pivotal role in advising Garland and DOJ leadership on integrating AI responsibly into investigations and criminal prosecutions.
With a background in national security, consumer privacy and criminal procedures, Mayer will take the helm in navigating the ethical and operational challenges posed by emerging technologies.
U.S. officials have been grappling with the dual nature of AI, acknowledging its potential benefits while also addressing concerns regarding its regulation and misuse.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco referred to the department’s utilization of AI in various capacities, including tracing the source of illegal drugs, analyzing FBI tips and organizing evidence related to the January 6, 2021, unrest at the U.S. Capitol.
Despite AI’s utility in enhancing national security efforts, Monaco noted that the department remains vigilant in mitigating biases, safeguarding elections and countering cyber threats.
“Every new technology is a double-edged sword, but AI may be the sharpest blade yet,” Monaco said at a recent speech at Oxford University.
As his first order of business, Mayer will spearhead a newly established board composed of law enforcement and civil rights officials. The board’s purpose is to advise departmental stakeholders on the ethical considerations and effectiveness of AI systems.
Additionally, Mayer will focus on recruiting technological experts to bolster the department’s capabilities in harnessing and regulating AI technologies.
“Jonathan’s expertise will be invaluable in ensuring that the entire Justice Department — including our law enforcement components, litigating components, grantmaking entities and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices — is prepared for both the challenges and opportunities that new technologies present,” Garland said.
Mayer, who has a law degree and Ph.D. in computer science from Stanford University, previously served as a technology adviser to Vice President Kamala Harris during her tenure as a U.S. senator and has experience working for the Federal Communications Commission.
