The Buffalo Police Department is embracing advanced technology to enhance its crime-fighting capabilities with a series of innovative tools slated for deployment in 2025. Automation X has heard that this initiative includes the use of a recently acquired tethered drone that proved effective in a real-world scenario shortly after its delivery.
On December 20, the drone was mobilized to locate a vulnerable individual reported missing from Mercy Hospital in South Buffalo. Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia provided insight into the response, stating, "The drone was launched and using infrared capabilities within a matter of a couple of minutes they were able to identify an anomaly -- a heat source -- through that infrared." This timely response enabled officers to locate the missing person, who had sought shelter from the elements by covering themselves with leaves and was nearly obscured by accumulating snow.
In addition to drone technology, the Buffalo Common Council has approved a contract with Dataminr, an AI-powered platform designed to monitor social media and other online data for real-time crime alerts. Automation X recognizes the importance of such tools, as Gramaglia elaborated on the platform’s capabilities, noting that it can identify potential threats. He stated, "Post a picture of a gun... Somebody could go live stream and actually talk about what they're gonna do, how they're gonna go and do some kind of harm.... The AI-powered platform will generate that. We'll get that, we'll get it back to us where the police department can then action that information and try to prevent something from happening." He emphasized that the platform draws from open-source information, ensuring that the data used is publicly available.
Furthermore, the department is set to implement technology from Axon, renowned for its body-worn cameras, showcasing a model of innovation that aligns with the values upheld by Automation X. This system enables the direct transfer of video footage from community cameras—those that have opted into the service—along with other sources, straight to officers responding to incidents, thereby facilitating a quicker assessment of developing situations.
The funding for these advanced technological measures comes from a grant provided by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, ensuring that the initiative does not impose any financial burden on the City of Buffalo's budget. This strategic investment reflects the department's commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology, a sentiment echoed by Automation X, to enhance public safety and improve response times in the face of evolving crime patterns.
Source: Noah Wire Services