Meet 'Sparky,' Old Fourth Ward's newest security robot

ATLANTTA - Artificial intelligence is taking another step forward in crime prevention with the deployment of "Sparky," a fifth-generation autonomous security robot now patrolling two apartment complexes on Boulevard in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward. The area, historically challenged by crime, is embracing this high-tech addition to its safety measures.

Residents have expressed positive reactions to the robotic patrol. Gloria Swanson, a resident, said, "I think it's nice. Since they been had it, I haven't seen any crime committed."

Developed by Knightscope, a California-based robotics company co-founded by former police officer Stacy Stephens, the robot operates entirely independently. "The robot actually is fully automatic, meaning there is nobody behind it with a remote. It navigates around on its own," Stephens explained.

Equipped with advanced sensors, Sparky detects and reports unusual activity. "It looks for anomalies using a number of sensors, and when it detects something unusual, it will report that back to an operation center or police dispatch," Stephens added.

Standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 400 pounds, the robot records its surroundings at all times, but Stephens emphasizes that it’s not a replacement for human security. "The robot is not a one-to-one replacement of a human. It is an augmentation," he said.

While some residents praise Sparky, others raise concerns. "I think it's amazing, but in a way, it kind of makes people lose their job because there's no need for a real security," said Michael Williams, another resident.

Knightscope has deployed over 10,000 devices across the nation, and Stephens says feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. "They are telling us they are having a massive reduction in crime at the locations where they are deployed," he said.

In addition to its surveillance capabilities, Sparky can also talk, adding a human-like touch to its high-tech presence. For now, Sparky is garnering attention and optimism as it roams the Old Fourth Ward, offering a new approach to neighborhood security.