In Arizona, the family of the deceased utilized artificial intelligence technology to create a virtual copy of their relative, allowing him to “return” to court. The judge approved the use of this innovative technology during the sentencing phase.
This is reported by Business • Media
Chris Pelkey, an Arizona resident who died in 2021 as a result of a traffic conflict, was able to speak at the hearing against his killer thanks to artificial intelligence. His family recreated his voice and appearance so that virtual Chris could address the court. Relatives emphasized the importance of allowing the deceased to express his opinion.
Technology and Ethics in the Justice System
To create the digital twin, the family gathered various materials, including videos, audio, and photographs, enabling the neural network to replicate Chris’s appearance and voice. The deceased’s sister, Stacey Wails, noted that the text voiced by the artificial intelligence reflected Chris’s kindness and his faith in God. She emphasized that they aimed to portray his character and forgiveness.
Virtual Chris, in the recording presented in court, expressed his willingness to forgive Gabriel Horkasitas, who shot him. Judge Todd Lang, considering the sincerity of the address, sentenced the defendant to 10.5 years in prison.
Attention to Ethical Issues
Retired federal judge Paul Grimm noted that the use of AI in the justice system was not surprising to him, as such technologies are already being employed in Arizona to streamline decision-making processes. However, business ethics professor Derek Leben expressed concerns about the potential ethical implications of using AI, stating that technologies could distort the will of the deceased.
“For us, this was an opportunity to give Chris the last word”
– emphasized Stacey Wails, adding that their family approached the issue ethically, viewing AI as a tool that could be used for both good and harm.