This article is based on research conducted as a part of the CA POST Command College. It is a futures study of a particular emerging issue of relevance to law enforcement. Its purpose is not to predict the future; rather, to project a variety of possible scenarios useful for planning and action in anticipation of the emerging landscape facing policing organizations.
The article was created using the futures forecasting process of Command College and its outcomes. Managing the future means influencing it — creating, constraining and adapting to emerging trends and events in a way that optimizes the opportunities and minimizes the threats of relevance to the profession.
By Delinia Lewis
In the dimly lit corridors of Ironclad Prison, Sentinel-7, a humanoid security robot, glided silently on its routine patrol. Its sensors detected an unusual heat signature in a shadowy corner, revealing a stash of escape paraphernalia: makeshift tools and a frayed rope. Analyzing the scene, Sentinel-7 scanned for fingerprints, identifying them as belonging to inmate Marcus Hale.
A quick search of Hale’s cell unveiled a meticulously drawn map, detailing a daring escape plan with precise timings and guard shifts. The robot’s artificial intelligence swiftly flagged the information, alerting the warden. Within hours, Hale was apprehended and transferred to a maximum-security facility, his ambitions thwarted by the vigilant machine. Sentinel-7 resumed its patrol, a silent guardian in a world of shadows.
As we stand on the brink of a significant transformation in the correctional system, it is crucial to open our minds to innovative solutions that can address the challenges we face. According to Bob Harrison, Researcher for the RAND Corporation, “The U.S. is headed for a 40 by 40, a 40 percent reduction in the law enforcement workforce by 2040.” [1] With projections indicating a staggering 40% loss of our correctional workforce in the next 40 years, the need for assistance in hazardous and routine tasks has never been more pressing. What if, instead of merely absorbing ever-increasing personnel expenses, custody settings could realize the potential of AI and robotics to address workforce shortages, enhance safety, and improve rehabilitation outcomes for inmates and staff? As amazing or strange as this may seem, we are closer than you might imagine.
Fewer and fewer corrections officers
In 2023, the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) asked leaders in American law enforcement agencies to provide their sworn staffing numbers on January 1 of 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Respondents reported that in January 2023, sworn staffing was 0.9 percent lower than in January 2022, and nearly 5 percent lower than in January 2020.[3] In fact, the number of officers per 100,000 residents dropped sharply during the 2007–2009 recession and has remained at that low level since.[3]
Complicating the issue further, resignations and retirements increased by 18% in 2020, accelerating to a 45% increase over previous years in 2021.[2] Additionally, law enforcement is experiencing a drastic decrease in the number of recruits — decreases from 27% to 60%, depending on the area.[4] The issue is exacerbated in agencies whose primary function is to manage correctional systems.
The decline in the popularity of corrections as a career in the U.S. can be attributed to several factors. A primary issue is that correctional officers face significant physical and psychological risks in a high-stress environment, where violence from inmates is a constant threat. Researchers have observed that “Correctional workers and people who are incarcerated experience similar challenges involved with poor workplaces and living conditions, including mental health crises, violence, stress, and chronic health issues, and the available resources lack integration with respect to safety and health promotion.”[5] Industry experts at the RAND Corporation believe, “In times of relative prosperity, other careers and positions might pull officers away from police work with higher salaries and easier work.”[6]
Coupled with low pay and inadequate benefits, many potential candidates for corrections careers find the profession unappealing compared to other law enforcement roles. Additionally, the negative public perception of the correctional system — often criticized for overcrowding and inmate treatment — further discourages individuals from pursuing this career. High turnover rates create instability, leading new recruits to experience the challenges faced by their predecessors, which can deter them from committing to the role. As society increasingly focuses on rehabilitation over punishment, potential candidates may also feel uncertain about the evolving nature of their responsibilities.
According to Lieutenant Timothy Karch with the Brighton Police Department in Rochester, New York, “Lack of support surrounding law enforcement has led to a record number of resignations and retirements. Younger officers have left the criminal justice field in pursuit of more lucrative, less scrutinized, and less dangerous occupations. Many of the more experienced members of the profession have retired, taking all their knowledge and expertise with them.”[4] The challenges in corrections are very similar. In fact, the American Correctional Association, Office of Correctional Health notes, “Dangerous work conditions, the difficulty of the job, pay, and an increase in retirement-eligible staff were often cited reasons for lack of staff retention.”[7]
Lastly, the emotional toll of working in such a demanding environment can lead to burnout and mental health issues, making the career even less attractive. A study published in the National Library of Medicine revealed that a staggering “37% of correctional officers may present symptoms characteristic of burnout. This syndrome is defined as a chronic psychological phenomenon present in individuals whose work requires intense and frequent attention, as well as contact with people that require assistance and care.”[8]
Collectively, these factors contribute to the perception of corrections as a challenging and unappealing career choice, resulting in difficulties in recruitment and retention within the field. Nationally, more than 35,000 openings for correctional officers and bailiffs are expected each year. The primary reasons for this number are 1) high staff turnover, 2) candidates selecting other industries, and 3) retirement.[7]
Fortunately, a promising solution is emerging that has the potential to transform the corrections industry: artificial intelligence (AI). Rapidly evolving, AI is poised to revolutionize operations by improving efficiency and enhancing staff safety. Exploring how AI can shape the future of corrections offers valuable insight into its potential to address staffing shortages and foster a safer, more humane correctional environment.
AI as a future solution
The integration of AI in corrections is in its early stages, with various pilot programs exploring its potential. The incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) — namely, autonomous robots that can provide support to officers in the form of meal, medication and escort deliveries, among other tasks — is underway. According to a study of the implications of AI in correctional settings, the authors noted that AI’s ability to mimic human intelligence could translate to using AI for community supervision of parolees, detecting contraband in custody settings, and monitoring biometrics, among a number of potential uses.[9] As the exploration of AI’s capabilities continues to evolve, the integration of robots in correctional facilities represents a promising frontier, poised to enhance operational efficiency and support human officers in their critical roles.
The integration of AI and robotics in corrections
When prompted with “How can robots assist corrections?” ChatGPT-generated text indicated, “Key applications include predictive analytics, which analyzes data to forecast inmate behavior and recidivism rates, and risk assessment tools that aid in classification and parole decisions. Additionally, AI-driven technologies like facial recognition and video analytics are enhancing security measures within facilities.”[10]
Benny Goedbloed, a corrections expert with over 30 years of experience, currently leads the Offender Management System for the Belgian prison administration. He is recognized for his innovative contributions to prison technology, including award-winning projects like PrisonCloud. His work with AI affirms its potential. He says that “Artificial intelligence (AI) systems have also been introduced to use advanced facial recognition systems where prison staff can analyze groups and ensure that social distance protocols are followed. A tech startup introduced an AI-based video analysis platform in several prisons in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh at the end of last year, for instance. It uses AI to scan CCTV images and alert authorities, but also to provide other insights.”[11]
Additionally, in facilities in countries like Japan and the Netherlands, robotic aides are being used to help with the delivery of meals and medications and security monitoring. This allows staff members to focus energy on other, more important tasks. Pilot programs are also beginning to use AI-powered analytics to predict the behavior of inmates and improve rehabilitation efforts. This reminds us that AI and robotics are not just theoretical frameworks but tangible applications that can help us greatly increase safety, operational efficiency, and inmate management in today’s correctional facilities.
In a progressive move to bolster security measures, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office announced the initiation of a pilot program in 2023 featuring robotic assistance. This innovative approach aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of operations at the Adult Detention Center. As part of this initiative, the sheriff’s office will deploy advanced DEKA Sentry robots for perimeter patrols and security rounds. “The 90-day pilot program will deploy DEKA’s Sentry robots that will assist with perimeter patrols and security rounds in select dormitories, adding an extra layer of safety and efficiency across the 10-acre property.”[12]
The DEKA Sentry robot is six feet tall and serves as a visible deterrent, equipped with 360-degree cameras, night vision, lights, heat detection, and two-way audio. Although they can operate autonomously, a live operator oversees them for more complex tasks, ensuring that security remains adaptable to various situations.
In the long term, the use of robots in the corrections system can potentially translate to significant cost savings by cutting down on labor costs associated with tasks like surveillance and monitoring that can be automated. Not only can they function 24/7, but they also do so without a human presence, which can help reduce operational costs and improve response times in an emergency, hopefully avoiding costly injuries or lawsuits.
Furthermore, freeing up correctional officers to spend time on critical components of their position — like rehabilitation — robots can aid in more favorable inmate outcomes and a decrease in recidivism, ultimately leading to lower long-term costs.
Although robotic technology requires an initial investment, continuing upkeep costs can be lower than those of human labor, and data-driven insights generated by AI can result in more effective policymaking and resource allocation.
Robotic workers in everyday use
By utilizing robotic workers to take on routine responsibilities, agencies can mitigate the impact of insufficient recruitment. This approach allows for a reduction in the number of officers required on duty, enabling them to focus on more critical and complex situations. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also empowers corrections officers to concentrate on higher-risk scenarios that demand their expertise and decision-making skills.
In addition, the robots offer important applications that enhance their capabilities to effectively achieve positive outcomes. The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute believes “AI and robotics will significantly enhance law enforcement’s surveillance capabilities.”[13]
U.S. Department of Justice Senior Scientist Christopher Rigano explains, “AI seeks to replicate this human capability in software algorithms and computer hardware. For example, self-learning algorithms use data sets to understand how to identify people based on their images, complete intricate computational and robotics tasks, understand purchasing habits and patterns online, detect medical conditions from complex radiological scans.”[14]
Several challenges hinder the effective implementation of AI in corrections. Ethical considerations are paramount, as concerns about bias in algorithms can lead to unfair treatment of certain populations. Ensuring transparency and accountability in AI decision-making processes is also critical. Moreover, many correctional facilities and jails lack the necessary resources and training to fully utilize AI technologies, which can limit their effectiveness. “We have a responsibility to prepare people in prison to survive in this tech-driven society, and the question on how we use technology should be informed by ethical and moral principles.”[15]
Considerations
While AI can assist in various tasks, the need for human oversight remains essential, highlighting the importance of balancing automation with human judgment. “AI should be used as a tool to support decision-making, not replace it — businesses should integrate AI to enhance efficiency and provide insights, but human oversight is essential for making strategic and context-rich decisions.”[16]
Data privacy is another significant concern among inmate advocacy groups, as the use of AI raises questions about the ethical handling of inmate information, necessitating strict guidelines and regulations. Overall, while AI has the potential to enhance efficiency and safety in corrections, addressing these challenges is vital for its successful implementation and to ensure that it serves the best interests of both staff and inmates.
A 2019 Slate article noted, “With the new technology, prison breaks will be history,” and suggested that unethical behavior from guards, such as taking bribes, might become a thing of the past.[17]
Equally intriguing, in a 2018 Politico article, How Robots Will Break Politics, Economist Magazine senior editor Ryan Avent said, “While we are probably still a very long way away from an AI with humanlike general intelligence, we are much closer to a world where particular machines can perform specific tasks as well as humans and at far less cost — precisely the kind of change that reshaped nations 150 years ago.”[18] This shift opens the door to discussing the potential of robotics in taking on high-risk duties such as surveillance in volatile areas. In spite of these issues, the future is coming over the horizon. It is up to us to determine what it might be and how it will work. The possibilities right now, though, are almost limitless.
Revolutionizing corrections
Imagine a future where robots work alongside correctional officers, taking on high-risk duties such as surveillance in volatile areas, conducting routine inspections, and managing logistics. Robots can also be utilized to administer medications, and with the integration of 3D Scanning Technology (3ST), they can ensure that pills are properly digested. Incredibly, 3ST has the potential to be miniaturized and incorporated into a robotic system, allowing for detailed imaging of soft tissues in the oral cavity. This technology provides high-resolution images without the use of ionizing radiation, making it an effective tool for monitoring the administration and digestion of medications. Basler, a robotics company working on industrial machine vision, notes that “Robots, factory and logistics automation and the medical sector are all fertile fields for 3D, as it can open up unprecedented opportunities for resolving complex image processing tasks.”[19]
By embracing technology, we can reimagine the role of correctional officers, transforming prisons into safer environments for both staff and inmates. As one author explains in an article on collaborative robots, “Collaborative robots, also known as Cobots, are a type of robot designed to work alongside humans in a shared workspace. Unlike traditional industrial robots that are typically caged off or separated from humans for safety reasons, Cobots are built with advanced sensors and safety features that allow them to operate safely near human workers.” [20]
Conclusion
The potential impact of AI and robotics in corrections is immense, as these technologies can revolutionize the way inmates are managed, enhance facility operations, and improve safety and efficiency for staff and inmates alike. Without innovative solutions like AI and robotics, facilities may struggle to maintain security and effectively rehabilitate inmates, resulting in higher recidivism rates. “Overall, maximizing human and robotic potential demands adaptation from everyone to cultivate safety through technological progress. With this capability, decision-makers are provided with strategic, operational, and tactical intelligence impacting the safety of officers, inmates, and the community.”[21]
Ultimately, neglecting these challenges could perpetuate a cycle of inefficiency and danger, undermining the integrity of the justice system and public safety.
As the AI and robotics revolution approaches in corrections, stakeholders — policymakers, administrators and advocates — must support the integration of these technologies. Through pilot programs and partnerships, we can create safer, more effective rehabilitation environments that reduce recidivism. Join the conversation in your community, engage with local facilities, or advocate for tech-friendly policies. Together, we can improve corrections for those who need it most.
Continue the discussion
- How can correctional facilities balance the use of AI and robotics with the need for human judgment and ethical oversight?
- What training and infrastructure changes would be necessary to implement AI and robotics in your agency or facility?
- In what ways could AI and robotics improve not just security, but also rehabilitation outcomes for incarcerated individuals?
- What are the potential risks of bias or misuse in AI systems within a correctional setting, and how can they be mitigated?
- Are there current tasks within your correctional facility that could be safely and effectively offloaded to robots or AI systems?
References
- Harrison B. Command College Lecture. January 28, 2025.
- Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). New PERF Survey Shows Police Agencies Are Losing Officers Faster than They Can Hire New Ones. 2023.
- Lofstrom M, et al. Law Enforcement Staffing in California. 2025.
- Karch T. Playing the Long Game: Law Enforcement Recruitment. FBI-LEB. 2024.
- Hull O, Breckler O, Jaegers L. Integrated Safety and Health Promotion among Correctional Workers and People Incarcerated: A Scoping Review. National Library of Medicine. 2023.
- Wilson J, Dalton E, Scheer C, Grammich C. Police Recruitment and Retention for the New Millennium. 2010.
- Gondles E, Miskell M, Beyene M. Staff Recruitment and Retention in Corrections—The Challenge and Ways Forward. American Correctional Association. 2023.
- da Silva Venâncio L, Diniz Coutinho B, Gardano Bucharles Mont’Alverne D, Fragoso Andrade R. Burnout and Quality of Life among Correctional Officers in a Women’s Correctional Facility. National Library of Medicine. 2021.
- Redden J, Inkpen C, DeMichele M. Artificial Intelligence in Corrections: An Overview of AI Applications and Considerations for Systems Administrators and Policy Makers. Office of Justice Programs. 2020.
- OpenAI. ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. 2023.
- Goedbloed B. Robots, Scanners and Thermal Cameras: Technologies in Prisons and the Coronavirus Pandemic. Penal Reform International. 2020.
- Roebuck S. Meet the Nearly 6-Foot-Tall Robots Patrolling a Ga. Jail. Corrections1.com. 2024.
- United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICJR). Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics for Law Enforcement. 2019.
- Rigano C. Using Artificial Intelligence to Address Criminal Justice Needs. NIJ Journal. 2019;280.
- Van De Steene S. Ethical and Moral Reflections on the Digital Prison. Justice Trends Magazine. 2019.
- Fan W. AI Isn’t the CEO — Why Human Judgment Still Rules in Business Decisions. Entrepreneur.com. 2025.
- Bala N, Trautman L. Smart Technology Is Coming for Prisons, Too. Slate: Future Tense. 2019.
- Avent R. How Robots Will Break Politics. Politico Magazine. 2018.
- Basler. How Advances in Vision Technology Help Transform Robotics. 2024.
- Rao R. Cobots vs Robots: Understanding the Key Differences and Applications. WeVolver. 2023.
- Wasson M. Enhancing Department of Corrections Investigative Units with AI-Powered OSINT. Corrections1.com. 2023.
About the author
Delinia Lewis is the Associate Warden at the California Institution for Women (CIW) in Corona, California, where she has served since 2022. She began her career with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation in 2006, holding various roles in Healthcare Compliance, Employee Relations, and Administration, before being promoted to Associate Warden at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in 2020.
Ms. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration from California Polytechnic University, Pomona, and received the Medal of Valor – Distinguished Service Award in 2021 for her work with Transgender, Intersex, and Non-Binary incarcerated individuals.
In addition to her role in corrections, she is an Adjunct Professor at Mount San Antonio College and actively participates in her community as a Rotarian and a member of the Chino Hills Community Foundation Board of Directors. She is also a Commissioner for the San Bernardino Board of Behavioral Health and a participant in Command College Cohort 74.