Florida Sheriff's Office partners with university to create AI-powered cybercrime unit

By Joanna Putman
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POLK COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Sheriff's Office is launching a new unit dedicated to fighting cybercrime through the use of artificial intelligence.

In partnership with the Polk County Sheriff's Office, Florida Polytechnic University students and faculty will provide technical and research support to the initiative, Florida Politics reported.

“Modern law enforcement must stay ahead of the technological curve when it comes to preventing, fighting and solving crime,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. “With the incredible potential benefits of artificial intelligence, there is a downside: criminals will use the technology to commit crimes.”

Judd emphasized that the unit will focus not only on investigations but also on vision, discovery and creativity to keep the community safe, according to the report. The partnership with Florida Polytechnic University will leverage the institution's expertise and human talent to strengthen crime-fighting capabilities.

The new unit will focus on obtaining and maintaining advanced training and tools to identify AI-related crimes and assist in criminal investigations involving cyberstalking, identity theft, extortion, hate crimes and other cybercrimes, according to the report. Florida Polytechnic University will support the unit by developing advanced technology solutions and providing real-world professional experience for students.

“This working partnership with the Polk County Sheriff's Office is a natural fit with our mission to serve students and industry,” said Florida Polytechnic University President Randy K. Avent. “We strive to find real-world applications to bring value to the education of our students and value to our community. This is another way for us to be leaders in building a technology-based economy in Florida.

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