Axon Enterprise, an Arizona technology company, announced a plan to develop taser drones after the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. The technology, which costs a school district $1,000 per year, was designed to combat school shootings and keep students safe.It would enable first responders to launch a Taser at a target from a distance of 40 feet. It could be in any location, from corridors to vents. It contains a camera and a detection sensor, which cuts down on the time it takes to find victims and targets. It is safe to use because it is a non-lethal energy weapon that can be used to paralyze opponents that the police officer can face. It will absolve good police personnel of responsibility for their actions. Does this appear to be a promising technology? For some, yes, but not for others.
Nine out of the 12 members of the AI ethics advisory board quit in protest at the idea. Their concern was the harm it would cause to the communities of color that were being policed excessively. The members did not specify what kind of harm they meant, but school shootings have already brought harm to communities, not just communities of color. The question is: what data will drones capture and not interfere with privacy? Other questions include: what level of risk and threat does this technology pose to communities if it is not used, regardless of school violence? What is the level of risk and threat if taser drones are used in schools? What is the cost and benefit? What impact does it have on students?
The technology is still in its early stages of development. Rick Smith, the CEO and founder of Axon, halted the proposal after receiving their input. He wanted to concentrate on conversing with them in order to determine the best course of action.
Taser drones do not provide community safety. It may reduce school violence, but kids will eventually find new ways to disrupt communities again. Technology is efficient. It responds to emergencies in a short amount of time. It is a helping hand to first responders to better serve every community. On the other hand, if it fails, it may inflict more harm than good. That is why interpersonal skills and approaches are essential.Invest, for example, in teacher training to respond to shootings, as other states have already done. Teachers can direct kids to a secure location and protect them until the cops arrive. Also, rather than simply replacing cops with school counselors and support workers, invest in them. Both occupations are vital. You can’t have one without the other. Counselors and other support personnel assist pupils in recovering from trauma or bad behavior. Law enforcement officers safeguard the safety of every community.
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