The Michigan State Capitol in Lansing has deployed an AI-based, proactive gun detection video analytics platform designed to protect politicians, government officials, and visitors from gun-related violence.
The system is supplied by Philadelphia-based ZeroEyes, which delivers a proactive, human-verified AI gun detection software solution that integrates into existing digital security cameras and with the goal of helping to mitigate shootings and gun-related violence by reducing response times and providing actionable intelligence with images.
This marks ZeroEyes’ first implementation within a state capitol building.
According to the company, if a gun is identified, images instantly will be shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If the experts determine a threat is valid, they will dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence, including visual description, gun type, and last known location, to internal security teams and the local police force in as fast as 3 to 5 seconds from detection.
“As the political climate grows increasingly tumultuous, it’s imperative that we remain vigilant and attuned to our surroundings,” says Rob Blackshaw, executive director of the Michigan State Capitol Commission. “I want visitors and those that come to work here every day to understand that, irrespective of external circumstances, our building remains a secure haven, and ZeroEyes plays a pivotal role in ensuring that safety. The accuracy of its technology and proficiency of its staff are truly exceptional.”
Encompassing approximately 10 acres, the Michigan State Capitol and grounds is a 145-year-old historical landmark that annually hosts more than 350 events and welcomes more than 115,000 visitors, including families and schoolchildren.
Given its significant foot traffic, the building is equipped with an array of security systems designed to deter the presence of guns and weapons. ZeroEyes will amplify the current security by providing additional situational awareness inside the building, as well as enhanced visibility around the exterior premises.
“We are currently witnessing an alarming surge in political violence, and the Michigan State Capitol’s dedication to ensuring the safety of its staff and the community is commendable,” says Mike Lahiff, co-founder and CEO of ZeroEyes. “ZeroEyes takes pride in being selected to help ensure safety in this important and historical building.”
In September, Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti adopted ZeroEyes. It was the first Michigan campus to do so.
