Denver Police Acquire New Robot

Denver Police Acquire New Robot

Published on December 04, 2024

Denver - Wednesday, December 4, 2024 - Today, the Denver Police Department announces a new addition to the force - a robotic "dog" that's assigned to the Denver Police Bomb Squad and will also be utilized as needed in certain Denver Police Metro SWAT responses. This new robot, which is to be utilized to increase safety across the Denver Metro region, is grant funded by the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) and North Central All-Hazards Region (NCR) of Colorado. The purchase of the robot was made possible by approximately $328,000 in grant funding.

The remote-controlled robot has four legs and one arm that can open doors and lift objects. The robot is equipped with cameras and lights for operation in dark spaces and can be used to facilitate two-way communication. Unlike DPD's current bomb robot, this robot has four legs that allow it to quickly navigate stairs, pick itself up if it falls over, and maneuver around/over debris or items that could hinder a robot on wheels or tracks.

The robot is not equipped with weapons and will not be used to deploy any lethal or less lethal weapons.

The Denver Police Department will utilize the robot in the following situations, allowing officers to remain at a safe distance:

• Inspect and remove suspicious or explosive items
• Conduct a preliminary search a building after a search warrant is obtained
• To inspect where there is, or may be, potentially hazardous materials

"The Denver Police Department is thrilled to have this tool to increase officer safety by utilizing the robot to enter into potentially life-ending situations - protecting the lives of our community and our officers," said Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas. "This new robot also demonstrates our commitment to leveraging technology to provide public safety services in innovative ways."

In addition to its investigative functions, the robot will also be used as a community engagement tool, capitalizing on curiosity in the robot to open the door to conversations between officers and the community. The Denver Police Department is partnering with students at Doull Elementary School to name the robot.

Video of the robot can be viewed here. You may use the video in your reporting with attribution to the Denver Police Department.

NOTE: Denver Police will use the robot as part of its safety plan for the Parade of Lights, so attendees could get a firsthand look at the robot at work along the parade route.

• Police Department