Burlington Police Department Introduces Two Scout Robots

BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) — The Burlington Police Department has introduced new equipment that its chief hopes will minimize the amount of force used in certain tense situations.

Chief Brandon del Pozo tells WPTZ-TV (http://bit.ly/2dyF4fZ ) that his department is the first in Vermont outside of the state police to possess scout robots for use in the field.

The two remote-operated robots will travel into places where officers aren't sure what exactly is going on to gather information.

One has jagged tires and is designed for more rugged terrain. The other is smaller, faster and quieter than the first.

Between the two of them, del Pozo says the robots can handle most locations in Burlington.

Lt. Matthew Sullivan says he thinks the robots are a fantastic tool that will help keep officers safe.

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Information from: WPTZ-TV, http://www.thechamplainchannel.com

[STORY BY: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]