In an effort to bolster safety measures, the Michigan State Capitol has recently showcased its new gun-detection technology, dubbed 'Zero Eyes,' aimed at identifying firearms within the premises. This artificial intelligence platform was demonstrated on Friday and has placed Michigan's statehouse as the first in the nation to implement such advanced security in a government building.

As reported by WILX, the installation of 'Zero Eyes' follows an incident in 2020, when protestors entered the capitol with guns, raising concerns about security measures. Robert Blackshaw, Executive Director of the Capitol Commission, noted the interest from other states in enhancing their security systems. "We have been getting calls from other state capitals because everyone is interested in upping their security game," said Robert Blackshaw. The goal of the technology is to provide rapid information to enforcement teams about a potential shooter's location, weapon, and appearance.

According to WZZM13, ZeroEyes works by sending immediate alerts to law enforcement if a weapon is detected on the camera system. Bryan St. Bernard, vice president of sales at ZeroEyes, explained that upon detection, it takes a matter of seconds for a threat to be verified and communicated to the necessary parties. St. Bernard further elaborated, "the faster you're able to identify that threat, the faster you can respond accordingly."

The 'Zero Eyes' system, which became operational last November, is connected to 100 cameras across the Capitol and is designed exclusively for the detection of firearms, not other weapons like knives or bombs. In a statement obtained by WLNS, Blackshaw highlighted that the AI is "a great aid to help them do their job more efficiently." Furthermore, Blackshaw expressed confidence in the AI's role in ensuring the safety of all those who visit the Capitol. "When the parents and the teachers put those kids on the bus to arrive here," said Blackshaw, "They know they’re arriving here to a safe environment. That were watching after them."

The integration of 'Zero Eyes' into the Capitol’s security framework marks a significant step forward in preventive safety within public spaces.