Umeå universitets logga

This thesis explores the potential impacts of increased surveillance camera use and advancedtechnologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and facial recognition on police investigations.As societal safety concerns rise due to geopolitical conflicts, organized crime, and heightenedterrorist threats, the Swedish government has intensified efforts to implement surveillancemeasures, including a "camera offensive." Surveillance cameras are widely acknowledged fortheir crime prevention capabilities; however, their role in investigative processes remains lessresearched.Through interviews with police investigators, this study examines the anticipated effects,challenges, and risks associated with the broader implementation of surveillance cameras oninvestigative resources. It further investigates the legal, ethical, and moral dilemmas inherentin using surveillance technology, particularly AI-based tools, to balance public safety andindividual privacy.The findings aim to provide actionable insights for law enforcement agencies, enabling themto optimize the use of surveillance technologies through early adaptation, resource allocation,and training. This research contributes to the discourse on surveillance as a multifaceted toolfor both preventing crime and enhancing investigative efficiency, while addressing the broaderimplications for privacy and public trust.By aligning its findings with the situational crime prevention theory, this thesis aims to provideactionable recommendations for law enforcement. It emphasizes the need for early adaptation,targeted training, and the development of ethical frameworks to ensure that surveillancetechnologies enhance investigative outcomes while maintaining public trust. The results offera nuanced understanding of how evolving technologies can be integrated into police work toaddress contemporary challenges in criminal investigations.