Examining the constitutionality of robot-enhanced interrogation

Abstract

The combination of human-computer interaction (“HCI”) technology with sensors that monitor human physiological responses offers state agencies improved methods for extracting truthful information from suspects during interrogations. These technologies have recently been implemented in prototypes of automated kiosks, which allow an individual to interact with an avatar interrogator. The HCI system uses a combination of visual, auditory, infrared and other sensors to monitor a suspect’s eye movements, voice, and various other qualities throughout an interaction. The information is then aggregated and analyzed to determine whether the suspect is being deceptive. This chapter argues that this type of application poses serious risks to individual rights such as privacy and the right to silence. The study concludes by suggesting that courts, developers, and state agencies institute limits on how and what information this emerging technology can collect from the humans who engage with it.