K-9 cops are a regular presence with L.E. around the country. Now the robotic version has come to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). What does this mean to police work and community awareness at the same time? Additionally, does it fit a need or does it become a novelty?
At a Glance
- LAPD introduces Spot, a robot dog designed by Boston Dynamics, for high-risk police situations.
- Spot’s abilities include door opening, object manipulation, and navigating difficult terrains.
- Concerns arise over potential militarization effects and privacy invasions in communities.
- LAPD emphasizes non-weaponization and life-saving roles of Spot.
Spot’s Role in Law Enforcement
Canine robotics has come to Los Angeles. THE LAPD made known to the public the addition of “Spot”, the new robotic wonder dog. He is now a part of the crime family of the police department. His purpose is to take away some of the high potential risks that human counterparts do. Which includes handling potential explosives and entries into possible danger zones.
The LAPD deployed Spot during an intense standoff involving a barricaded suspect on an L.A. Metro bus. The robot successfully identified and safely removed a weapon from the scene. Spot remains unarmed and without facial recognition capabilities, as confirmed by Deputy Chief David Kowalski. The dog is not a weaponized part of the police
Deputy Chief Kowalski emphasized in a statement, “The main reason that we acquired Spot is to save lives.” This statement reflects the LAPD’s commitment to utilizing technology for protecting officers and the public during hazardous situations.
LAPD deploys crimefighting robot dog named 'Spot' https://t.co/vBDT8zlpn9
— KRON4 News (@kron4news) October 3, 2024
Public Concerns and Reactions
Some community leaders and critics have expressed concerns about potential civil rights implications. Their issue reflected upon New York and their version, DigiDog< that raised issues. The LAPDstands by their canine robot as he is strictly for SWAT situations.
“I think that people are concerned in our communities because Spot follows a long and flawed history of predictive policing in Los Angeles.” – Brittany Friedman, Assistant Professor, USC Sociology Department.
Critics, including L.A. Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez, question the ethical implications and potential misuse of such advanced technology. The LAPD is remaining convinced that they will constantly be transparent.
Meet Spot, the LAPD's new crimefighting robot dog https://t.co/ASE4Qc3aEE
— News 19 (@whnt) October 3, 2024
The Path Ahead
The Los Angeles City Council approved the donation of Spot from the Los Angeles Police Foundation, valued at nearly $280,000, by a vote of 8-4. The proposal came with caveats that program adjustments are always on the table during “Spot’s” tenure.
“The main reason that we acquired Spot is to save lives.” – Deputy Chief David Kowalski, commanding officer of LAPD’s counterterrorism and special operations.
Boston Dynamics, the company that designed and built Spot Reiterated that Spot was designed for benefiting the Police and keeping citizens safe. The ethical side of Spot’s design is still to be decided.
Sources:
https://www.wivb.com/news/national/meet-spot-the-lapds-new-crimefighting-robot-dog/