The U.S. Justice Department has taken a significant step forward in addressing the complexities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence (AI) within law enforcement and the criminal justice system by appointing its first Chief AI Officer, Jonathan Mayer. Mayer, a distinguished professor at Princeton University with a background in technology and law, is tasked with the role of Chief Science and Technology Adviser in addition to his duties as Chief AI Officer.

Before this appointment at the Justice Department, Mayer contributed his expertise in significant roles that bridged technology and policy. Notably, he served as a technology adviser to now-Vice President, Kamala Harris, when she was a U.S. Senator.

Mayer’s comprehensive background in technology law, combined with his hands-on experience in policy advising and regulatory affairs, makes him well-suited to lead the Justice Department’s efforts in responsibly integrating AI into its operations.

In this new capacity, Mayer will lead a newly established board comprising law enforcement and civil rights officials. This board will offer counsel on the ethical and effective use of AI technologies. Furthermore, Mayer’s mission includes attracting more technology experts to the department. Attorney General Merrick Garland shared, “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.”

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