NYPD ends Knightscope K5 security robot trial
The New York Police Department ended its use of Knightscope's security robot in Times Square subway station after a six-month trial, calling into question the effectiveness of the robot. Initially heralded as a low-cost method of determining crime, the robot, which was designed to operate autonomously, received a mixed recpetion from New Yorkers and visitors, with some saying it was potentially a valuable additional crime-fighting resource. Others reckoned it seemed to do very little, was unable to walk up or down stairs, always required assistance, was a waste of resources, and threatened people's privacy. In addition to raising questions about the effectiveness of the Knightscope K5 robot as a crime-fighting tool, t he NYPD's decision to stop its use - for the time being - highlights the careful balance police authorities are seen to have to strike between fighting crime, and protecting the legal rights and ethical concerns of citizens. System 🤖 Knightscope K5 🔗 Operator: New York citizens Developer: Knightscope Country: USA Sector: Govt - police Purpose: Strengthen secu rity Technology: Robotics Issue: Effectiveness/value; Privacy; Surveillance
- Date it happened
- 2023-09-01
- Organisation involved
- New York Police Department (NYPD)
- Product, system or model
- Knightscope K5
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