Police forces across England and Wales have been directed to immediately stop using artificial intelligence tools in the preparation of court statements, according to guidance issued to law enforcement agencies.

The directive comes amid growing concerns about the reliability and accuracy of AI-generated content in legal proceedings, where precision and factual accuracy are paramount. Court statements prepared by police officers serve as crucial evidence in criminal cases and must meet strict standards for admissibility.

The guidance affects police departments throughout England and Wales, though specific details about which AI tools were being used or the scope of their previous implementation have not been disclosed. The timing suggests authorities may have identified potential issues with AI-assisted statement preparation that could compromise legal proceedings.

This development reflects broader concerns within the legal system about the integration of artificial intelligence tools, particularly regarding their potential to introduce errors or inconsistencies in official documentation. Legal experts have previously warned about the risks of using AI in contexts where accuracy and accountability are essential.

The instruction to halt AI use in court statements represents a cautious approach by law enforcement authorities as they navigate the challenges of incorporating new technologies while maintaining the integrity of the justice system.