Column: Why big data analysis of police activity is inherently biased

New research argues predictive policing tools reinforce, rather than reimagine, existing police practices, which could lead to further targeting of communities or people of color. In early 2017, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced a new initiative in the city's ongoing battle with violent crime. The most common solutions to this sort of problem involve hiring more police officers or working more closely with community members. But Emanuel declared that the Chicago Police Department would expand its use of software, enabling what is called "predictive policing," particularly in neighborhoods on the city's south side. The Chicago police will use data and computer analysis to identify neighborhoods that are more likely to experience violent crime, assigning additional police patrols in those areas.