NYPD security robot to patrol Times Square subway station
NYPD security robot to patrol Times Square subway station
NYPD Deploys Security Robot to Times Square Subway Station: A New Era of Safety
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is taking a futuristic approach to enhance security at the Times Square subway station. They have introduced a security robot called the K5, developed by California-based company Knightscope. This state-of-the-art machine, although lacking a humanoid design, packs a punch when it comes to security measures. It may look like a massive version of R2-D2, but it’s far from being just a “trash can on wheels,” as some have described it.
Weighing a hefty 420 pounds, the K5 is equipped with four cameras that have the ability to capture video but not audio. While it may lack arms, it certainly didn’t ignore Mayor Eric Adams’ attempt at a friendly gesture in the form of a heart. The robot will be patrolling the station from midnight until 6 AM during its trial run over the next two months. However, during its initial two weeks, it will focus on mapping out the station and will only roam the main areas, excluding the platforms.
The level of transparency concerning the K5’s camera footage remains uncertain. Although Mayor Adams mentioned that the robot will record video that can be reviewed in case of emergencies or crimes, it’s unclear whether the footage will be livestreamed or closely monitored by law enforcement. Additionally, there are no current plans to incorporate facial recognition technology into the robot, though privacy advocates like Albert Fox Cahn, the executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, remain concerned about its potential inclusion in future iterations.
While the K5 cannot physically or verbally apprehend suspects or respond to actual emergencies, it does provide real-time assistance by connecting people to a live person to report incidents or ask questions. All users need to do is press a button on the robot, and help will be on its way. This feature ensures that individuals in need have immediate access to necessary support within the subway station.
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The NYPD has leased the K5 for a reasonable price of approximately $9 per hour for the next two months. Despite recent mandates to reduce spending across several agencies, Mayor Adams believes that the robot’s capabilities justify the investment. “This is below minimum wage,” he stated. “No bathroom breaks, no meal breaks.” The mayor has consistently shown support for incorporating machines into police operations, as seen by the recent acquisition of two Digidog robots — each costing $750,000 — for use in critical situations, such as hostage scenarios. This decision marks a significant reversal from the NYPD’s canceled lease on the Spot robot, previously developed by Boston Dynamics, due to public backlash.
The introduction of the K5 robot to the Times Square subway station represents a new era in security measures. With its cutting-edge technology and round-the-clock surveillance capabilities, this robotic presence aims to keep the public safe. While the debate around privacy concerns and the extent of its surveillance remains ongoing, one thing is certain: the NYPD has embarked on an exciting journey into the world of advanced machines as vital tools in law enforcement. So next time you visit Times Square, don’t be surprised if you cross paths with a friendly but watchful robot ensuring your safety amidst the hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps.
