Jail Robots Deployed In Georgia
Are we heading toward a dystopian future where an overbearing AI network develops the ability to control every facet of our lives, employing an army of mindless robots to ensure that humans are kept in check and obey our eventual automatized overlord? Maybe we’re not quite at that point just yet, but one jail in Georgia has possibly started the clock, deploying a small team of three jail robots in an effort to create a “safer, more efficient” environment inside its correctional facility.
While the trio of robots lack the intelligence to think on its own, their creator believes that the technology could eventually be viewed as “indispensable” in the very near future.
See the robots in action in the video below.
An Attempt To Maintain Order And Safety
Located in Marietta, Georgia, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office currently holds around 3,000 inmates inside its one million square foot facility, making it a challenge to keep inmates safe and assure order is maintained at all times. Despite holding an accreditation from the American Correctional Association for its ability to maintain a high-level of safety standards, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office jail has taken a dramatic step to keep its facility running smoothly.
On October 23, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office jail held a ceremony to unveil three brand new jail robots, designed to enhance security inside its facility by utilize them for perimeter patrols and security checks. According to Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens, this is the first time in history that a jail has deployed a team of robots to aid in security measures.
More Efficient Than Human Security?
“I think we can work smarter with technology and not harder,” Owens said during the ceremony. “Allows me to shift manpower from other places inside the facility to get more things done.” Owens said that he believes that the jail robots will be able to complete tasks more quickly and efficiently than their human counterparts.
“Here’s a good thing, robots don’t call out sick, they don’t take vacations,” Owens said. “All they need to do is be charged.” Despite the glowing praise of the jail robots, Owens remains adamant that the robots aren’t here to fully take over the jobs of humans.
The Robots
The jail robots are designed by DEKA Research and Development, a New Hampshire-based firm that specializes in developing technologies for regenerative manufacturing, organ preservation, mobility enhancements, and autonomous robotics.
The machines stand at nearly six-feet tall and are equipped with 360 cameras, night vision, and even heat detection optics to provide continuous surveillance and real-time communications with human staff members.
The robots are equipped with dual capabilities. They can be programmed to move freely throughout the jail autonomously while also being controlled by a live on-site operator who can perform more complex tasks inside the facility. The robots come with three sets of wheels to promote more mobility inside the jail.
For now, the program to deploy the jail robots will only last for 90 days as a trial run, but depending on the outcome of the trial, the robots may become a permanent fixture inside the jail. According to Owens, he believes that the presence of the robots will create a safer environment for both inmates and his deputies while also reducing the occurrence of human error during routine tasks. With their trial partnership with DEKA, the jail robots will come free of charge while they attempt to determine if these robots are capable of handling the job.
Source: Fox 5 Atlanta
Login with Google