Washington State University develops AI assistant to guide police in domestic violence calls
Researchers at Washington State University have created an open-source AI tool designed to help police officers make faster, more accurate decisions during domestic violence responses. The system provides real-time guidance on evidence collection, legal requirements, and next steps-functioning as a digital advisor during high-stress situations.
The CSI app, developed by the university's Complex Social Interactions Lab, addresses a concrete problem officers face: managing an unstable scene while gathering consistent information, checking for weapons, protecting children, and documenting testimony from multiple parties. The cognitive load is substantial.
"You're managing a fast-moving situation while trying to remember procedures, resources, and everything that needs to be documented," said Christina Shellabarger, a PhD student and manager at the lab.
How the system works
The app analyzes information as officers record it and dynamically prompts follow-up questions based on what witnesses report. It also interprets case law and statutes in real time, allowing officers to make legally sound decisions during first contact.
A standardized data collection approach is built into the system. This allows individual officers and different departments to compare cases and identify patterns-particularly from repeat offenders who may be escalating.
"It's not about collecting more data," said Shlok Tomar, a computer scientist at the lab. "It's about collecting the right data and making it usable in the moment."
Additional features
The app translates languages, enabling people with limited or stress-impaired language skills to communicate more effectively. It can also recommend actions such as contacting child protective services and other nearby resources.
Future versions will include automated keyword detection to prompt trauma-informed questions and modified wording tailored to specific situations.
Timeline and testing
WSU is recruiting police departments and survivor advocacy groups to test the system and customize it for their own needs. A beta version will release later this year, with a stable version expected in early 2027.
David Makin, principal investigator and professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology at WSU, said the university is fulfilling its responsibility to serve the public. "This is exactly what a land-grant university is supposed to do. Take research out of the lab, build something useful, and put it in the hands of the people who need it," he said.
For legal professionals interested in how AI tools are being applied to law enforcement and case management, see our resources on AI for Legal professionals and the AI Learning Path for Paralegals.
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