A team of military veterans has developed a human-verified AI gun detection solution.
In an effort to bolster school safety after a nationwide spike in shootings, lawmakers in the US state of Kansas are proposing the use of AI-powered camera systems to detect firearms on school grounds. . The technology, developed by ZeroEyes, a firm founded by military veterans, will trigger alerts for human verification by former law enforcement and military personnel before being sent to authorities.
The proposal comes after a spike in school shootings, with 2021, 2022 and 2023 expected to record the highest number since at least 2008. CNN. In 2023 alone, there were at least 82 incidents, with 2022 being particularly deadly with 46 deaths.
According to a report of interesting engineering, Kansas could offer up to $5 million in grants to equip schools with these AI-backed cameras. However, pending approval by Governor Laura Kelly, schools will need to meet certain standards. These include the use of patented technology, obtaining the designation of “capable counterterrorism technology,” adherence to security industry standards, and at least 300 subclassifications and at least 2,000 permits in three broad categories of firearms. Includes having the ability to detect names.
Zero Eyes’ technology was inspired by the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida. The company is currently eligible for similar state firearms detection programs implemented by Michigan and Utah in 2023, with legislation enacted earlier this year in Florida and Iowa. Proposals are also underway in Colorado, Louisiana, and Wisconsin. Missouri became the latest state to approve such measures last Friday, allocating $2.5 million in matching grants for schools to purchase ZeroEyes’ AI system.
With school safety a growing concern following high-profile shootings such as the Virginia Tech massacre (32 deaths, December 2023) and the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting (27 deaths, the second deadliest), these AI camera systems are a potential solution. Being presented as Early hazard detection and prevention. However, the legislation in Kansas is still pending the governor’s approval.
How does this technology work?
Detection: ZeroEyes uses existing security cameras to view a live video feed for any sign of a firearm.
Verification: If ZeroEyes sees a potential firearm, a technician at the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC) quickly checks the image. Technicians only look at images where a firearm may be present.
Answer: Once a technician confirms a firearm, ZeroEyes immediately (usually within 3-5 seconds) alerts school administrators and law enforcement, the number and location of suspected shooters. Provides details of