The Oklahoma Department of Corrections Embraces AI-Enhanced Drones for Improved Safety
The Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) is on the brink of implementing a forward-thinking initiative: an AI-enhanced unarmed drone program intended to monitor the Red Rock Correctional Center. This initiative aims to tackle the persistent issue of contraband within prison facilities while boosting safety and security for staff, inmates, and the surrounding community.
The Challenge of Contraband
Contraband—items prohibited in prisons such as drugs, cell phones, and weapons—remains a significant challenge for correctional facilities. Often, these items enter prison grounds through perimeter drops, where they are clandestinely tossed over fence lines. Traditionally, these areas have been monitored around the clock by officers in department vehicles. However, the ODOC is now looking to enhance these efforts significantly with drone technology.
The Role of AI and Drones
Candice Moore, the chief administrator of IT and project management at ODOC, describes this drone initiative as a "massive game-changer." The drones will be aided by advanced AI visual inspection software, allowing them to differentiate between what belongs in the facility’s yard and what does not. This sophisticated mapping of the Red Rock Correctional Center will empower the drones to act as vigilant eyes on the grounds, increasing situational awareness for corrections staff.
Partnering with Tech Innovators
For this ambitious project, the ODOC has formed partnerships with two leading tech companies: Skydio and Levatas. Skydio manufactures the drones that will be used, while Levatas supplies the AI inspection platform that interprets the visual data collected by these drones. Interestingly, Levatas has also made headlines for incorporating ChatGPT with the Boston Dynamics robot dog, Spot, showcasing their cutting-edge technological expertise.
This partnership marks the first venture of its kind into corrections for both companies. They are providing not just the drones and AI capabilities, but also a robust alert system that ensures swift response to any possible contraband activity identified by the drones.
Staff Training and Trial Period
To ensure the successful integration of this technology, the ODOC plans to train its staff to become certified drone pilots. This training will not only equip staff with the skills to operate drones effectively but also foster a culture of innovation within the department.
The implementation is set to begin with a 45-day trial period. Should this phase yield positive results, ODOC intends to consider expanding the program. This pilot project is particularly significant given that the ODOC employs around 3,600 staff members and oversees a population of 46,000 individuals in various stages of the correctional system.
Real-World Applications Beyond Corrections
The use of drones is not limited to Oklahoma’s correctional facilities; across the United States, public safety agencies are increasingly adopting unarmed drones for a myriad of applications. These include monitoring large public events, assessing damage from natural disasters, and search and rescue operations. There is a growing recognition that drones can serve as an invaluable tool for enhancing public safety.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Jason Sparks, the Chief of Operations at ODOC, emphasizes that incorporating advanced drone technology aims not only to strengthen safety for both staff and inmates but also to improve operational efficiency. With enhanced real-time surveillance capabilities, rapid incident response becomes possible, facilitating a more secure environment for everyone involved.
As this innovative program unfolds, it represents a significant step forward in the application of technology within the corrections system, reflecting a broader trend toward incorporating cutting-edge solutions in public safety and security.
