Fatal Shootings on CTA, Attention Turns to Weapons Detection Software
A New Era of Gun Violence in Chicago
The Labor Day weekend murders of four passengers aboard a CTA blue line train marked another instance of gun violence in Chicago. It also renewed attention on the relatively new weapons detection software being used by the company ZeroEyes.
CTA’s Pilot Program with ZeroEyes
Earlier this year, the CTA quietly signed a $200,000 pilot program contract with ZeroEyes, the Pennsylvania-based company whose software program helps identify guns. It’s currently being used on some 200 CTA cameras, according to ZeroEyes’ JT Watkins, who spoke to NBC 5 Investigates during the Global Security Exchange conference in Orlando in late September.
Limitations of the Software
A CTA spokesman told NBC 5 Investigates Wednesday that the software is installed on cameras on CTA platforms – not trains – and did not have any impact or effect on the Labor Day weekend shootings because they happened on a section of track in Forest Park – where the software was not in use. A months-long investigation by NBC 5 Investigates found that while the weapons detection industry is growing, the detectors have limitations – and in some cases – have failed to detect certain weapons.
Navy Pier’s Experience with ZeroEyes
Navy Pier has been using ZeroEyes for two years. Court records show video cameras captured the movement of a suspect after a double fatal shooting there earlier this month. A spokeswoman for Navy Pier told NBC 5 Investigates in an emailed response that they’ve “been impressed the system’s identification abilities.” She would not comment on what role – if any – it played in the fatal shootings.
Industry Growth and Efficacy
By one estimate, the weapons detection industry is growing – currently valued at $700 million and expected to grow to $2 billion by 2033. Watkins – like other security tech vendors we spoke to – said that detectors provide added value, but should be considered part of a layered approach to security coupled with other measures.
Conclusion
The fatal shootings on the CTA and Navy Pier have raised questions about the effectiveness of weapons detection software in preventing gun violence. While the technology has its limitations, it can still play a crucial role in identifying and responding to threats. As the industry continues to grow, it’s essential to consider the software as part of a comprehensive approach to security.
FAQs
* What is ZeroEyes’ weapons detection software?
+ ZeroEyes’ software uses artificial intelligence to detect firearms and return a clear image of the actor holding the gun.
* Can the software detect concealed weapons?
+ No, the software cannot detect concealed weapons.
* Has the software been used in any other incidents?
+ Yes, Navy Pier has been using ZeroEyes for two years and has captured footage of suspects in several incidents.
* How effective is the software in preventing gun violence?
+ While the software has its limitations, it can still play a crucial role in identifying and responding to threats.
