Low-Key Chappie: Baltimore Company Presents AI-powered Robot Aimed to Combat Crime

Crime-fighting robots were presented to the public in Baltimore recently. X9 Intelligence, a local tech company, showcased Knightscope robots at an event hosted at Northside Baptist Church, demonstrating their capabilities. These advanced security robots, which assist municipalities, issued four main functions: deterring, detecting, reporting, and directly engaging with the public when necessary. This is prepared by SSP.

Mark Santana Li, co-founder of Knightscope, emphasized that the robots are intended to complement human efforts, not replace them, making law enforcement more efficient by providing additional surveillance and immediate communication through features like a security call button.

Jonathan Carroll from X9 Intelligence elaborated on the robots' abilities. They can patrol areas such as parks and respond to emergencies. They provide constant 360-degree surveillance and can be deputized, making any physical attack on them legally equivalent to assaulting an officer. Additionally, the robots are remotely monitored, allowing handlers to step in when alerts are triggered.

Knightscope robots also come equipped with facial recognition that can be customized. This feature enables the robots to identify and alert handlers if a known suspect is spotted, thus proving useful for targeted security. Privacy settings can disable recording features unless they are activated for specific interactions, such as assistance requests via intercom.

The introduction of these robots has raised privacy concerns among Baltimore residents. While some appreciate the potential to reduce crime, doubts linger about data storage and invasiveness. Comments from residents reflect a balance between enthusiasm for new technology and caution over its implications.

Fiscally, these robots average $10-12 per hour under an annual contract, but short-term assignments may cost more. Carroll noted some discussions with the Baltimore Police Department about employing this technology locally, albeit no confirmed interest yet.

Other cities have seen varied outcomes with similar robots. Notably, a decrease in 911 calls was reported in a high-crime apartment complex in Las Vegas, whereas a trial in New York City’s Times Square subway station concluded after just two months of use.