In a bid to enhance law enforcement capabilities and bolster community safety, the Axon Roadshow recently made its much-anticipated stop in Glasgow. The event showcased the latest advancements in Taser and bodycam technologies, offering the local police department a firsthand look at tools poised to revolutionize modern policing. Glasgow Police Department’s Major Terry Flatt summarized the upgrades.
The initiative, spearheaded by Axon, a global leader in connected law enforcement technologies, aimed to empower officers with state-of-the-art equipment designed to promote accountability, transparency, and efficiency in their daily operations. Steve Tuttle, Principal of Taser Technology and one of the five founders of Axon, spoke with WCLU about the companies history.
The Taser that Axon released 30 years ago, while a far cry from the Taser 10 of 2024, was offered to law enforcement as a safer alternative for incapacitation in the line of duty.
At the heart of the showcase were the newest iterations of Axon’s Taser 10 devices. Renowned for their effectiveness in non-lethal incapacitation, these devices have undergone significant innovation, boasting enhanced safety features and improved functionality. Tuttle elaborated on the improvements Axon has made to the Taser 10 as opposed to the Tasers currently in use by GPD.
Accompanying the Taser technology were Axon’s cutting-edge body cameras. With public scrutiny of law enforcement practices at an all-time high, body-worn cameras have become indispensable tools for accountability and evidence collection. The GPD eagerly explored Axon’s latest models, which offer high-definition video recording, advanced audio capture, and seamless integration of a “live stream” rather than just a recording. GPD Chief Guy Howie, spoke on how the department and the public will benefit from the new bodycams.
Tasers and cameras were far from the only thing displayed, the implementation of drone technology was also at the forefront of the expose. Howie, who had been keenly interested in use of drones in the field, talked to WCLU about the advantages the tech would offer his staff.
The Axon Roadshow wasn’t just about showcasing gadgets; it was about fostering dialogue and collaboration between law enforcement professionals and technology experts. Attendees engaged in lively discussions about best practices for implementing and utilizing these technologies, ensuring that their deployment aligns with community needs and expectations.
Furthermore, Axon representatives provided comprehensive virtual reality training sessions, equipping officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to maximize the potential of these tools while respecting individual rights and privacy concerns. By investing in ongoing education and support, Axon demonstrated its commitment to empowering law enforcement agencies with the resources they need to serve and protect effectively.
As many law enforcement agencies face staffing issues and staff concerns over proper accountability, the investment in the betterment of tech available to officers will be a game changer for those departments, as Tuttle explained.
The Glasgow community welcomed the Axon Roadshow as a testament to the police department’s dedication to modernization and accountability. All those present held an air of optimism about the potential of these technologies to improve public trust and enhance safety for both officers and civilians alike.
As the Axon Roadshow concluded its visit to Glasgow, the legacy of innovation and collaboration it leaves behind will continue to shape the future of law enforcement in the community. With access to cutting-edge Taser and bodycam technologies, the GPD stands poised to uphold its commitment to serve and protect with integrity and transparency.