This episode was recorded at Axon Week 2024. Axon Week 2025 will take place April 22-25 in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at https://www.axonweek.com/.
Download this week’s episode on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify or via RSS feed, and watch the video version on Police1’s YouTube channel.
In this special episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with Rick Smith, the visionary founder of Axon, formerly known as TASER International. Smith talks about the advancements discussed during Axon Week, including the TASER 10, virtual reality-based training and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on policing.
The conversation delves into how these innovations are poised to enhance officer safety, increase efficiency and reduce critical incidents. With real-world examples and insights, Smith explains the journey from early TASERs to the latest TASER 10, emphasizing its potential to outperform traditional firearms. The episode also explores how virtual reality is revolutionizing training methods, making them more effective and accessible. Additionally, the discussion covers AI tools like Draft One, which streamline report writing, allowing officers to focus more on community engagement and proactive policing.
Key takeaways
- Advancements in non-lethal technology: The TASER 10 offers officers up to 10 attempts to connect, improving reliability and effectiveness in the field, aiming to surpass traditional firearms in performance.
- The importance of virtual reality training: Axon’s VR-based training allows officers to practice extensively in virtual environments, significantly enhancing their proficiency with non-lethal weapons and situational responses.
- Draft One released, AI for report writing: Axon’s Draft One AI tool transcribes body camera footage to create first drafts of police reports, reducing the time officers spend on paperwork and increasing accuracy and efficiency.
- Community and retail safety: Axon’s new initiatives, including body cameras for retail workers and the integration of community cameras, aim to enhance safety and provide valuable evidence for law enforcement and prosecutors.
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