Michigan State Capitol Implements Groundbreaking AI Gun Detection System

The implementation comes amid a heightened focus on safety in Lansing's legislative buildings.

Rob Blackshaw, the executive director of the Michigan State Capitol Commission, emphasized the importance of vigilance in the current political climate. "As the political climate grows increasingly tumultuous, it’s imperative that we remain vigilant and attuned to our surroundings," Blackshaw stated. He further expressed his desire for the Capitol to remain a secure haven for both visitors and employees, attributing a significant role to ZeroEyes in ensuring this safety. "The accuracy of its technology and proficiency of its staff are truly exceptional," he added.

November 22, 2023

ZeroEyes, as described by the company, is designed to augment the existing security at the Capitol by facilitating the sharing of images of detected firearms. If a gun is identified, the images are shared with ZeroEyes' operation center. The company's staff, comprising primarily of former U.S. military or law enforcement veterans, would then alert the police both within and outside the Capitol grounds if the threat is deemed credible.

 WATCH TRUMP: EUROPE HAS OPENED IT'S DOORS TO JIHAD

Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes, commended the Michigan State Capitol's commitment to safety in light of the rising political violence. "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," Lahiff said. He expressed pride in ZeroEyes being chosen to contribute to the safety of this significant and historical building.

 WATCH DUKE PROFESSOR: STUDENTS VIEWING THE WORLD AS OPPRESSOR VS. OPPRESSED

Earlier this year, the commission approved a comprehensive gun ban at the Capitol Building, with exceptions for individuals such as law enforcement officials or sitting lawmakers with valid Concealed Pistol Licenses. As part of this decision, the commission also sanctioned the installation of pass-through weapon detection towers at four entrances throughout the Capitol. These towers scan for a variety of weapons, including guns and 3-D printed weapons like knives or hammers.

 KEVIN SPACEY'S DARK SECRETS EXPOSED IN NEW DOCUMENTARY SERIES

Since 2021, open carry has been entirely prohibited in public areas within the Michigan State Capitol Building. This decision followed an April 2020 rally where armed individuals, some of whom were later implicated in a plot to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer, entered the Capitol, causing distress to several sitting lawmakers. However, open and concealed carry is still permitted on the Capitol lawn.