Here’s the first story of a series on the hidden impact of algorithms in our lives. This story investigates computer programs that counties sometimes use to make decisions on bail, parole and even sentencing. ProPublica studied one of the more common programs and found that while it’s somewhat more accurate than a coin flip, only 20% of the people predicted to commit violent crimes actually went on to do so. When it comes to race, the formula was likely to falsely flag black defendants as future criminals, wrongly labeling them at almost twice the rate as white defendants.