San Francisco backs down and won’t let police use ‘killer robots’

The San Francisco City Council on Tuesday opposed passing a resolution calling for the use of robots capable of killing by law enforcement, but did not rule out the idea entirely, referring the measure back to committee.

These “killer robots”, intended to be deployed in certain extreme cases, such as terrorist attacks or mass killings, are generating intense controversy after the City Council ruled in favor of their use last week.

“Last week, despite ethical fears, I supported the legislation, but in the past week I have not been comfortable with this issue. I don’t think remotely controlled and armed robots will make us any safer,” said Councilor Gordon Mar . Tuesday.

Eventually, the council backtracked by passing legislation allowing San Francisco police to obtain military equipment, but without the use of robots.

“A Last Resort Option”

Many opponents have criticized the move, fearing it will lead to more police brutality and a dignified future for the film. robocop. During the municipal meeting, various opponents entered during the session, signs in hand.

Plus tôt dans la journée, des dizaines de personnes sont venues protester devant l’hôtel de ville de San Francisco, avec des placardes claiming “de ne pas armer la police avec de nouvelles armes” or affirming encore that “les robots tueurs ne sont pas the solution”.

“The use of robots in life-threatening situations is an option of last resort,” San Francisco Police Chief William Scott said in a statement in early December.

“We live in a time when mass violence is becoming more frequent,” he insisted. “We need this option to save lives, should this type of tragedy occur in our city.”

The San Francisco police currently have several remote-controlled robots that are used when officers need to keep their distance before securing a location, such as during a bomb threat situation.

The new measure would allow these robots to be used to place an “explosive charge” capable of “incapacitating or disorienting an armed or dangerous violent suspect who threatens to take life,” according to police.