Also known as the Guardian HX and designed by a company called StarChase, the handheld GPS launcher comes with features like a foregrip laser sight pressure switch, a removable and rechargeable battery that takes the place of a standard magazine, and an extendable shoulder stock. The projectile travels at 37 mph and has a range of around 35 feet, or 60 feet, if shot at an angle.
A video of the three new devices – including the K5 autonomous security robot and a digi dog robot – was shared by the department on Twitter, and Mayor Eric Adams was also present to express his confidence in the new technologies.
“I’m a computer geek, and I believe that technology is here,” said Adams. “We cannot be afraid of it, and as the [commissioner] has stated, transparency is the key.”
John Chell, Chief of Patrol, highlighted the need to track ghost cars, cars with paper plates, and stolen cars, as these vehicles are sometimes used to commit further crimes. “It allows our officers to stay safe, limit pursuits, and let the GPS do its job,” said Chell of the device.
