New York City is implementing AI-powered scanners from Evolv Technology in its subway system to detect guns, knives, and explosives as part of a 30-day pilot program announced by Mayor Eric Adams.
The scanners feature the NYPD logo and a multicolor light display that can allegedly screen up to 3,600 people per hour.
The pilot program is facing skepticism from riders, and threats of a lawsuit from civil liberties advocates like NYCLU and Legal Aid Society over potential constitutional rights violations.
Some riders find the security screenings impractical and suggest addressing safety concerns differently, such as adding guardrails, while experts question the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing scanners throughout the vast subway system. Crime in the NYC subway system has decreased, with violent crime being rare.
Mayor Eric Adams stated that while he would prefer not to have scanners, the technology is necessary to keep guns out of the subway system as per riders' preferences. He announced the 30-day trial of the Evolv scanner at a lower Manhattan subway station.
Adams said he considers the scanners to be in an experimental phase and welcomes other companies to pitch their own gun-detection innovations.
Evolv, the company behind the scanners, claims their technology can detect weapons efficiently without alerting to harmless metal objects. The technology company faced legal challenges and investigations related to its marketing practices and claims.
Experts have cast doubt on the feasibility of implementing scanners in the city's vast subway system with multiple entrances.
Mayor Adams envisions having weapons detectors at every turnstile in the future, potentially requiring a vast police presence.
New York City has previously experimented with various security measures in the subway system, including bag checks and explosive detection technology.
Sources: Le Monde, Washington Examiner, Inquirer, Headtopics, Fortune, US News
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.
