AI-Powered Scanners in NYC Subway Detect Zero Guns in One-Month Test
AI-powered weapons scanners in NYC subway detected zero guns during a one-month test. Over 100 false alerts were generated by the scanners, along with the discovery of 12 knives. Mayor Eric Adams led the pilot program to enhance subway safety, despite facing skepticism.
Despite conducting nearly 3,000 searches, the scanners did not detect any passengers carrying firearms. However, they did produce over 118 false alerts and identified 12 knives. The police did not specify whether the positive hits were related to illegal weapons or permissible tools like pocket knives.
Mayor Eric Adams launched this pilot program to improve underground safety by installing portable scanners manufactured by Evolv at select stations. Adams, a tech enthusiast and Democrat, spearheaded the move in response to concerns raised by two high-profile shootings.
Some commuters and civil liberties groups reacted sceptically to the announcement of the pilot program. They questioned the feasibility and constitutionality of scanning millions of daily tube riders at multiple entrances. Despite the rarity of violent crimes in the system, the initiative was launched to address public safety concerns.
After months of anticipation, the New York Police Department released the test results, revealing that 2,749 scans were performed at 20 stations over a 30-day period. The data revealed 118 false positives, which accounted for a 4.29% rate. However, the statement did not include information about the duration of each screening, staffing requirements, or rider refusal rates.
Mayor Adams has endorsed Evolv, the Massachusetts-based company behind the scanners, since he took office in 2022. The scanners were first used in a city-run hospital before being deployed on the tube, with plans to expand into public schools in the future. Despite this, Evolv has encountered legal issues, including federal investigations into its marketing practices.
In response to the test results, the Legal Aid Society called the program a failure, citing concerns about the effectiveness of Evolv's weapons detectors. The society expressed hope that the contentious and unsuccessful initiative would be abandoned, citing ongoing litigation and investigations into Evolv.
AI-powered weapons scanners in NYC subway detected zero guns during a one-month test
Over 100 false alerts were generated by the scanners, along with the discovery of 12 knives
Mayor Eric Adams led the pilot program to enhance subway safety, despite facing skepticism
Source: AP NEWS