That’s Not Me
Summary
This episode of Criminal examines how flawed AI facial recognition technology led to the wrongful arrest of Portia Woodruff, who was detained despite being visibly pregnant. Host Phoebe Judge explores the systemic risks of algorithmic bias, highlighting how low-quality surveillance images and police overreliance on tech can misidentify suspects, particularly people of color. The story also features defense attorney Christopher O’Brien using similar technology to exonerate a client, illustrating the double-edged nature of these tools in the justice system.
Topics discussed
Portia Woodruff's wrongful arrest and detention
How facial recognition led to the mistaken ID
Portia's release and the trauma of the ordeal
History of facial recognition errors and bias
Technical limitations and accuracy of the software
Case study: Algorithmic bias in a Bronx robbery
Lack of transparency in police use of AI
Using facial recognition to exonerate the innocent
Portia Woodruff's reflection and police apology
Listen ad-free on Castria