Media Advisory
The San José Police Department (SJPD) has released a new video message featuring Chief of Police Paul Joseph using AI software technology to convert his voice into Spanish. The video is designed to reach San José’s diverse communities in the languages they speak at home, including Spanish. While this first release features Spanish, the Department plans to add more languages in future videos to reflect the diversity of our city.
“I believe we have community members that are afraid to report crimes because of concerns over immigration enforcement," said Chief Paul Joseph. I'm willing to use any tool available, including AI to get the message out to our community that you can call San Jose Police for help, and we will not ask your immigration status. I want them to hear that message directly from me.”
In the video, Chief Joseph delivers a simple, vital message:
"The San José Police Department does not participate in immigration enforcement. Our mission is public safety for everyone.”
Using advanced AI translation tools, the message is spoken in the Chief’s own voice in a language he doesn’t speak fluently, making it more personal and easier for community members to trust and understand. The intent is not to showcase technology, but to remove language as a barrier to hearing reassurance directly from the leader of the police department.
The video emphasizes that:
• San José police officers do not enforce federal immigration laws.
• Officers will not ask about a person’s immigration status.
• Everyone can report crimes without fear of immigration consequences.
This effort is one small step in SJPD’s broader commitment to serve all San José residents with dignity and respect, regardless of immigration status or background.
“This is exactly the kind of innovation we should be leading with,” said Mayor Matt Mahan. “Using AI to break down language barriers and connect directly with our residents is a smart, compassionate use of technology. I want to thank the San Jose Police Department for making sure every San José family, no matter what language they speak, knows they can trust and rely on their police department.”
“Our residents deserve clear, compassionate communication, no matter what language they speak,” said San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “This effort reflects San José’s values: inclusion, safety, and trust between our communities and the people who serve them.”
San José is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country. This video reflects the department’s ongoing effort to listen better, communicate more clearly, and build stronger bridges of trust across our communities.
The department is asking for the community’s help to share the video so the message can reach as many households as possible.
By: Sergeant Jorge Garibay #4218
Authorized By: Chief Paul Joseph