New York City is set to trial artificial intelligence-based gun detection systems in its subway system. The scanners the company responsible for supplying the technology, are currently under investigation by both the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
On May 17, 2021, a subway train arrives at a station in New York City as the subway returns to twenty-four-hour service. (Photo: ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)
AI-Powered Gun Detection in NYC Subway
Mayor Eric Adams announced that New York City will commence testing a novel technology employing artificial intelligence to detect firearms at subway turnstiles. The decision follows a recent incident at a Brooklyn subway station where a passenger was shot with his own weapon during a confrontation.
The city's initiative, as first seen by CBS News, involves a partnership with Evolv, a Massachusetts-based company specializing in weapons detection systems widely deployed in educational institutions and public venues nationwide.
However, Evolv has faced scrutiny regarding the accuracy of its devices, alongside ongoing investigations by government agencies and a shareholder lawsuit. Under the pilot program, slated to begin in 90 days, the New York City Police Department will adhere to the POST Act's requirements.
This legislation mandates the disclosure of surveillance technologies employed by the department and the publication of impact and usage assessments before implementing new technologies. During the waiting period, the city also plans to evaluate alternative vendors.
Adams expressed a keen interest in embracing technological innovations, inviting companies to submit their technologies for testing and evaluation.
Furthermore, the city conducted a pilot program with Evolv scanners at a Bronx hospital in response to a shooting incident within the ER waiting room. Additionally, numerous school districts nationwide have adopted Evolv scanners in their efforts to enhance campus security and mitigate the risk of shootings.
CEO Peter George asserts that the scanners can identify various weapons, including firearms, explosives, and large tactical knives.
However, concerns have been raised about the technology's effectiveness. Reports indicate instances where Evolv's scanners have mistakenly identified harmless items as weapons.
For example, umbrellas have been flagged as firearms, while aluminum and steel tubes designed to resemble gun barrels have gone undetected.
