Influence of Artificial Intelligence on Evidence Collection in Criminal Investigations in Kilifi County, Kenya

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology in criminal investigations by improving evidence collection, documentation, and management. Despite its increasing adoption globally, empirical evidence on its effectiveness in decentralized and resource-constrained environments remains limited. This study examined the influence of Artificial Intelligence on evidence collection in criminal investigations in Kilifi County, Kenya. Guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Procedural Justice Theory, the study adopted a descriptive mixed-methods research design. Data were collected from 301 respondents, comprising police investigators, forensic analysts, legal professionals, and victims or witnesses, using questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that AI significantly enhances evidence collection by improving accuracy, completeness, reliability, and traceability, and reducing human errors. Regression results indicated a positive and statistically significant relationship between AI utilization and evidence collection effectiveness (R² = 0.399, p < 0.001), demonstrating that AI accounted for 39.9% of the variation in evidence collection outcomes. Qualitative findings further showed that AI-supported systems improved evidence documentation, organization, retrieval, and overall investigative efficiency. However, inadequate technological infrastructure, limited user training, and concerns regarding data quality were identified as key implementation challenges. The study concludes that AI is a valuable tool for strengthening evidence collection, enhancing procedural integrity, and improving accountability in criminal investigations. The study recommends increased investment in AI infrastructure, continuous capacity building for investigators, and the development of appropriate legal and ethical frameworks to support the responsible adoption of AI within Kenya's criminal justice system.