Crime
NYPD adds 'Spot' the robot dog and other high-tech devices to police force
The remote-controlled robot dog will be used to assess hazardous situations, including hostage negotiations and counterterrorism incidents
April 12, 2023 8:45am
Updated: April 12, 2023 8:45am
New York City officials unveiled new high-tech policing devices on Tuesday, including Spot the robot dog, in order to help keep the Big Apple safe.
During an event at Times Square, New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York Police Department Commissioner Keechant Sewell demonstrated three new innovative policing devices that the city’s police force plans to use in order to increase officers and the safety of residents.
"To safeguard our modern city in a forward-looking world, it is essential that our officers are equipped with the tools, training, and technology necessary to do that job safely and effectively," Sewell said.
"Throughout its history, our department has leveraged the latest available technology and pioneered ways to do our work," he added.
One of the technologies is the robotic K-9 named “Spot.” The remote-controlled robot dog will be used to assess hazardous situations, including hostage negotiations and counterterrorism incidents. "Instead of sending police officers in there, you send Digidog." Spot will de-escalate high-risk situations and save the lives of “both the police and the public,” the NYPD added.
Another technology is StarChase, a projective that attaches a GPS-enabled device that allows police to track vehicles. This pilot program will be used to locate cars with stolen plates that have been used to commit crimes, mitigate vehicle pursuits, and locate ghost cars. "This is a game changer," the NYPD said.
The third technology announced by city officials is the K5 Autonomous Security Robot (ASR), which conducts automated patrols in confined areas, such as train stations. ASR’s technology helps identify incidents and report them real time to first responders. Similar technology is already in use in shopping malls and college campuses.
“We are scanning the globe on finding technology that will ensure this city is safe for New Yorkers, visitors, and whoever is here in the city,” Mr. Adams said. “This is the beginning of a series of rollouts.”
The Future of Public Safety is NOW:
— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) April 11, 2023
🐕Digidog is a RC K-9 robot for use in assessing hazardous situations
🚙StarChase pilot will test a projectile that attaches a GPS-enabled device to stolen or ghost vehicles
🚨K5 ASR pilot will help conduct automated patrol in confined areas pic.twitter.com/4Qp05ph81o
