NYPD showcasing high-tech safety devices; use of AI receives pushback

Advocates say the NYPD has an overinflated budget, but Mayor Eric Adams stands by the NYPD’s new devices and says they’ll save New Yorkers.

News 12 Staff

Apr 11, 2023, 9:12 PM

Updated 612 days ago

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The NYPD and Mayor Eric Adams unveiled three new high-tech devices for fighting crime, but the new artificial intelligence tools are receiving backlash from some local groups.  
The K5 Autonomous Security Robot was put on display today, and will provide additional security in high-traffic areas. The NYPD will be rolling out the new AI tech in areas like Times Square and within the city’s transit system.  
Officials say the K5 uses artificial intelligence to provide real-time notifications, and that a real person will, at times, accompany the tech during its six-month pilot phase.  
Courtesy: NYPD, NYC Mayor's Office
The main attraction was Digidog – an artificial canine operated by remote that will be deployed in high-risk and deadly situations like standoffs and other life-threatening scenarios. Officials say that Digidog will be best used in instances such as when an armed suspect is barricaded.  
Courtesy: NYPD, NYC Mayor's Office
The NYPD also demonstrated its new Star Chasing GPS Tracking pilot program, which is aimed at cracking down on vehicles with fake license plates and preventing high-speed police chases.  
Courtesy: NYPD, NYC Mayor's Office
The GPS tracker shoots a projectile onto a vehicle that allows the NYPD to track it, helping officers stay safe and limit pursuit. Officials say that these new forms of artificial intelligence devices will help to transform public safety and save lives, but some groups like the New York Working Families Party are voicing their concerns about the new tech. 
They released a statement that reads: 
"The Adams administration continues to show that they are willing to write blank checks to the NYPD while cutting resources that would create true community safety.” 
Advocates say the NYPD has an overinflated budget, but Mayor Eric Adams stands by the NYPD’s new devices and says they’ll save New Yorkers.  
The NYPD plans to roll out the K5 robot sometime in June or July.