A 5-foot-tall, 600-pound security robot called Marshall has been making waves after reducing crime at Kansas City’s Briwood Center by about 50%. Built on a smart car frame, Marshall is equipped with cameras in all directions and records 24/7. It is the only unit of its kind in a public place near Kansas City and can read license plates and recognize people walking by. Despite not carrying a weapon, Marshall has been successful in arresting criminals. “Marshall was able to provide the IP address and license plate of the getaway car,” said property manager Amanda Bellemere. “The first words out of my mouth were, ‘No, that’s not going to work.'” Shopper Jalynn Lewis says she feels safe when Marshall is nearby, especially when she’s leaving the gym late at night. “I feel safe when Marshall is there, definitely when I’m coming out of the gym late at night.” Shoppers are warming to the idea of Marshall, even though it was awkward at first. “The area has always had a bad reputation,” one shopper said. Bellmer believes the days of high crime are over and he hopes the Briarwood Centre can become a destination, especially for tailgaters heading to games and the World Cup.
Kansas City, Missouri —
Marshal, a 5-foot-tall, 600-pound security robot, is making waves after reducing crime at Kansas City’s Briarwood Center by about 50 percent.
Built on a Smart Car frame, the Marshal is outfitted with cameras in all directions and records 24/7. It’s the only unit of its kind in public places near Kansas City, and it can even read license plates and recognize pedestrians.
Despite not carrying a weapon, Marshall was successful in helping to apprehend criminals.
“Marshall was able to provide the IP address and license plate of the getaway car,” property manager Amanda Bellemere said. “The first words out of my mouth were, ‘No, you can’t do that.'”
Shopper Jalynn Lewis said she feels safe having Marshall nearby, especially when she leaves the gym late at night.
“It gives me peace of mind, especially coming out of the gym late at night.”
Shoppers have warmed to Marshall’s idea, despite initial awkwardness.
“This area has always had a bad reputation,” one shopper said.
Bellmer believes the days of high crime are over and hopes the Briarwood Centre will become a destination, especially for tailgate party-goers heading to games and the World Cup.
