Key Takeaways
- The Renton Police Department is upgrading its technology with new AI software to enhance public safety systems
- The new software includes real-time translation and transcribing capabilities, language detection, and drone technology
- The department will also be introducing a real-time crime center, Fusus, to integrate live video and drone footage for decision making
- The Drone as First Responder (DFR) program will provide real-time aerial intelligence for emergency responses
- The police department will also be equipped with a new self-defense technology, the Taser 10, to reduce injury and deescalate situations
Introduction to AI Upgrades
The Renton Police Department is set to incorporate new AI technology into its law-enforcement systems, following the approval of a 10-year contract extension with Axon Enterprise Inc. by the Renton City Council. The contract, which comes at a cost of $1,567,151.59, represents an increase of approximately $700,000 from the current contract. According to Meeghan Black, Public Information Officer for the Renton Police Department, the upgraded technology will enhance the department’s existing products by modernizing their public safety systems. The new software is designed to save time, streamline evidence management, and help officers respond more effectively to calls by providing access to a range of AI-powered tools.
Real-Time Translation and Transcribing Capabilities
One of the key features of the new software is its real-time translation and transcribing capabilities, which will be integrated into the department’s body-worn cameras. This technology will enable officers to communicate with individuals who speak different languages, breaking down language barriers and improving response times. The software can detect the language of the speaker and provide real-time translation, with a library of over 100 languages available. Deputy Chief Ryan Rutledge demonstrated the technology at a council meeting, highlighting its potential to enhance communication between officers and the public. The feature is part of a larger AI Era Plan designed to improve public safety outcomes.
Real-Time Crime Center and Drone Technology
The police department will also be introducing a real-time crime center, called Fusus, which will integrate live video, drone footage, and Axon feeds for real-time decision making. This technology is expected to reduce response times, increase case clearance rates, and produce more positive investigation outcomes. Additionally, the department will be launching a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, which will provide real-time aerial intelligence to responding officers, enabling faster and safer emergency responses. The DeDrone Rapid Response Trailer will also be deployed to detect and track unauthorized drones, providing the police with the technology to protect people from malfunctioning drones at large gatherings.
Self-Defense Technology and Efficiency
The Renton police will also be equipped with a new self-defense technology, the Taser 10, which is designed to have greater accuracy, range, and effectiveness in reducing injury. The Taser 10 will replace the department’s current Taser 7 and will be used to deescalate dangerous situations without the use of lethal force. According to Deputy Chief Rutledge, the new technology will have a significant impact on public safety, community trust, and officer efficiency. The department expects to reallocate the time saved through the new technology to proactive patrolling and community engagement.
Budget and Funding
The agenda bill for the contract extension notes that there is sufficient budget for the extension in 2026, but future biennium budgets will require an ongoing additional cost of approximately $1 million per year. Despite the increased cost, the department believes that the upgraded technology will strengthen its ability to prevent, respond to, and investigate crime, positioning the Renton Police Department as a leader in public safety innovation. The new technology is expected to support the department’s commitment to transparency, best practices, and community trust, ultimately enhancing public safety outcomes in the community.