The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has taken delivery of a “Quadruped Unmanned Ground Vehicle” named “Spot,” produced by Boston Dynamics, which will be used in specific situations including assessing explosives and aiding Search and Rescue teams. However, people in the community have expressed their concerns about the robot’s potential misuse to monitor and target people, especially in poorer communities of color. Activists have protested against its acquisition, stating that the robot would likely be deployed in areas where “we blow up firework semis.”
The LA and NYPD Have Followed in the Footsteps of Other Law Enforcement Agencies
The LAPD’s adoption of “Spot” follows similar acquisitions by other law enforcement agencies, including the New York Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police. Critics maintain that the LAPD’s decision represents an expansion of the current boundaries around policing and surveillance, which could easily be abused by police departments.
Supporters of the Technology Say It Will Save Lives
On the other hand, supporters of the robot dog claim that it will save lives and enhance officer’s safety, as it can be deployed into high-risk incidents before human officers. Boston Dynamics’ Brendan Schulman cited an example from another city where a robot dog sent in by police officers saw that the shooter had dropped his gun and was in danger of dying, so medical staff were dispatched.
Council Members Are Concerned About the Robot’s Use
However, some members of the Los Angeles City Council expressed concerns that the acquisition of the robot would lead to the automation of law enforcement and pose a danger to the community. They are concerned about the potential for misuse and that the robot could target certain communities. The LAPD has stated that Spot will not be equipped with any weapons systems, facial recognition software, or analysis capabilities, and it will also not be used for routine patrol duties or covert surveillance operations.
The LAPD’s Commitment to Evaluation and Transparency
The LAPD plans to begin using the robot in the coming months following training and testing protocols, and will provide quarterly reports about the robot dog’s use. Council members can also suspend use of the robot at any time. By doing so, the LAPD clearly indicates their commitment to transparency and evaluation of the robot’s effectiveness in specific situations.
In conclusion, the LAPD’s adoption of “Spot” raises important questions about the use of sophisticated technology in law enforcement. While supporters argue the robot can save lives and enhance officer safety, critics remain concerned that the technology could be easily misused. It is important for the LAPD to demonstrate that the robot dog will not be deployed inappropriately and target vulnerable communities.
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