5 Findings of the #causavincenz from a data perspective
These findings contribute to the discussion among lawyers at the conference «Digitalisierung des Straf- und Strafprozessrechts» whether the digitalization of the criminal law and criminal procedural law is in good shape or asking for adjustments.
Herlock.ai’s analysis of the data included in the #causavincenz trial impressively demonstrates the huge data challenge all parties in modern white collar criminal cases are facing and the opportunities data transparency creates. Here are the five main findings.
#1 Data volume in modern criminal cases has become demanding
Out of the secured data in 2018, 300’000 acts - corresponding to an A4 Page each - were included in the data universe for the main trial. These data had been produced by the prosecution and processed by the defendants and private plaintiffs. To get an idea: Done manually, this means that one person does nothing but scan the documents during working hours for 1.5 years, if 30 seconds are dedicated per page.
#2 Referenced evidence differs substantially between the parties
Of the 300’000 acts only 3.4% were referenced in the main trial, many of them several times.
In total, roughly 10’000 acts were referenced in the indictment, pleading, reply and rejoinder all together, which the court had to digest in less than three months.
Interestingly, the overlap of the referenced acts between indictment and main trial presentations is only 10.6%, suggesting an evolving narrative as the case progresses.
#3 Electronic data quality of the production is insufficient
Data quality largely differs between the different documents included in the case. Quality issues range from different reference numberings used for act identification (changing from 7 to 9 digit numbering), over stamping challenges with stamps within different physical orientation, poor quality scans, act references including entire CD’s, to name a few. These are challenges, which make it difficult for all parties to easily find - as required - and verify evidence.
#4 Data analytics will increase the transparency of court decisions
With this kind of data analysis, it will be possible for the first time to show how the evidence referenced in the main trial is considered in the reasons for the judgement thereby increasing the transparency of the court's decision for all parties involved.
#5 Tool assisted data processing is more important than ever
Not only the volume of data, which has to be processed in short periods of time, but also the data insights provided by tools like Herlock.ai will contribute to efficient and fair trials of today’s white collar criminal cases.
Stay tuned for the data analysis of the reasons for the judgement.
