A robotic police officer that failed to issue a single ticket or make any arrests in 10 months has been removed from the streets of Dublin, Ohio, with critics calling the £100,000 project a failure.
DubBot's Dismal Performance
The DubBot, as the automated officer was named, became a punchline after it failed to produce any tickets or reports leading to an arrest. Despite its advanced features, including 360-degree cameras and two-way emergency communication, the robot did not contribute to any law enforcement actions.
Cost and Reimbursement
The city spent $128,080 (£96,500) on the pilot program, but will receive a reimbursement of nearly half, bringing the total cost down to $67,548 (£51,000). Plans to deploy a second robot were also canceled after the designated park lacked the necessary infrastructure.
Police Statement
Dublin police stated that the pilot program aimed to evaluate the robot in real-world conditions. They noted that additional security measures have since been implemented at the parking garage where DubBot operated. The department appreciated community support as they continue to explore safety solutions.
