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San Diego Police Department Is Weighing Using AI to Write Police Reports
The request is for information only and could lead to a $500,000 to $3 million contract as the department weighs a policy reversal.
On July 31, the San Diego Police Department issued a request for information seeking software to assist officers in writing police reports, with an estimated contract value between $500,000 and $3 million.
This exploration follows a December 2025 policy that forbade officers from using non-approved AI platforms. The shift occurs as Senate Bill 524 mandates departments disclose AI usage and maintain audit trails.
Critics, including Pillars of the Community president Khalid Alexander, oppose the technology, arguing it removes humanity from policing. San Diego police union president Jared Wilson warned the city should prioritize funding current operational needs over new software.
Other local agencies have already adopted AI for reporting. Chula Vista Police Department Chief Roxana Kennedy stated in November that AI helps officers "get back out on the street quicker," improving efficiency.
SDPD spokesperson Ashley Nicholes emphasized the department is in an "exploration phase" with no acquisition timeline. Should they proceed, the department plans outreach to elected officials and community members.