Executive Director’s Remarks
Exploring the Impact Technolgy Has on Jail Operations
What used to be manual processes have largely been replaced by technological systems. The pace of change has been rapid, but the introduction of robots into jails will be revolutionary in comparison.
Back in October, the Cobb County, GA, Sheriff's Office announced plans to launch a 90-day pilot program to use robots to enhance security at their Adult Detention Center.
The robots are described as, "Standing at nearly six-feet-tall, Sentry robots serve as a powerful and visible deterrent to potential threats. Equipped with 360-degree cameras, night vision, lights, heat detection, and two-way audio capabilities, the robots provide continuous surveillance and real-time communications."
Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens refers to them as "jail bots." They will be used to assist corrections officers with perimeter patrols and security rounds in dorms, enhancing safety for officers and those who are incarcerated. Sheriff Owens believes the jail bots will be a "game changer," and indeed, that is what's needed as our nation's jails continue to struggle with chronic staff shortages.
The jail bots bring to mind the robotic dogs that were introduced at the AJA Conference & Jail Expo two years ago in Omaha. The dog bots could be equipped with peripherals for detecting drugs or cameras. A dog bot could be sent into a situation to conduct surveillance that might be dangerous for a person.
The use of technology to improve the safety and operations of our jails is nothing new. What used to be manual processes have largely been replaced by technological systems. The pace of change has been rapid, but the introduction of robots into jails will be revolutionary in comparison. The operational challenges and financial impact of staff shortages will be the driver of innovation.
This issue of American Jails will explore the massive impact technology is having on how we operate our jails. You will want to read every article, and I encourage you to check out the many technology providers in our exhibit hall at the AJA Conference & Jail Expo in Fort Worth, TX, in May. Knowledge is power, as the saying goes, and nowhere is that more true than in the technology sector.
CHRIS D. DANIELS, MPA, CAE Executive Director American Jail Association
