New York City is taking a step towards the future of policing with the introduction of crime-fighting robots. The NYPD has announced that it will be piloting three new pieces of futuristic equipment to help with policing. The K5 Autonomous Security Robot, produced by Knightscope, is among the new equipment and has been dubbed the "snitchBOT". Equipped with a 360-degree HD camera, license-plate reader, and sonar and lidar sensors, the K5 Autonomous Security Robot can detect people during restricted hours and will patrol Times Square and city subways.

In addition to the snitchBOT, two controversial four-legged "Digi-dogs" have already been added to the force.

These robots, which cost a total of nearly $750,000, have raised concerns about privacy and surveillance. However, the NYPD has assured the public that the new tools are expected to be used in hostage situations or to investigate bomb threats and would not take a dime from the police force budget. Rather, they would be paid for using forfeiture money seized from crimes.

The introduction of crime-fighting robots comes as the city faces a surge in crime, particularly on the subway system. In late 2022, the Post reported that felony crimes on the NYC subway system escalated 40% compared to 2021. This included robberies, rape, murder and other violent crimes, like people being pushed off the platform into the tracks. The NYPD's move towards technology and innovation is an attempt to combat this crime surge and keep New York City safe.

Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell and Mayor Eric Adams spoke about the importance of equipping officers with the tools, training, and technology necessary to do their jobs safely and effectively. "To safeguard our modern city and 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," Commissioner Sewell said during the press conference. "In the case of the NYPD, this has been true for nearly two centuries."

The K5 Autonomous Security Robot is about 5.5 feet high and weighs 400 pounds. It travels at a maximum speed of 3 mph and is equipped with more than a dozen microphones and a 360-degree HD camera, as well as sonar and lidar sensors. The robot's license-plate reader allows it to detect stolen vehicles or vehicles that are associated with crimes. The robot can also detect unusual behavior, such as loitering, and can alert authorities to potential threats.

The introduction of crime-fighting robots has sparked debate about the role of technology in policing. Some argue that technology can be a valuable tool in keeping communities safe, while others are concerned about the potential for abuse and privacy violations. The NYPD has assured the public that the robots will be used in a responsible and ethical manner, and that they will not replace human officers.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards the use of technology in law enforcement. From facial recognition software to drones, police departments around the world are exploring new ways to keep communities safe. While some have raised concerns about the potential for abuse, others argue that technology can be a powerful tool in the fight against crime.

The NYPD's move towards technology and innovation is part of a larger trend towards "smart cities". Smart cities use technology and data to improve quality of life, reduce crime, and enhance public safety. By using crime-fighting robots, the NYPD is taking a step towards making New York City a safer and more innovative place to live.

Conclusion:

The NYPD's introduction of crime-fighting robots represents a significant step towards the future of policing. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more and more police departments around the world embracing new tools and innovations to keep their communities safe.

References:
NYPD rolls out ‘snitchBOT’ to patrol city subways, monitor criminalsNYPD Unveils Robots to Help fight Crime