Portland Police Deploy Robot Dog For High-Risk Operation

The Portland Police Bureau has introduced a new addition to its equipment: a robotic dog named “Spot,” developed by Boston Dynamics.

During a press conference on Thursday, first reported by KPTV, police outlined several uses for the robot, including bomb disposal and assisting in situations involving armed suspects by delivering a phone for communication with crisis negotiators.

Spot is a quadruped robot capable of navigating uneven terrain, stairs, and other challenging spaces where traditional tracked robots may struggle. Operated via remote control, it is equipped with limited collision-avoidance technology but is not powered by AI, as reported by K103.

Spot can climb stairs, open doors, pick up objects, and maneuver through obstacles with minimal input, offering responders additional options in emergencies. It is unarmed and will not be used for patrols.

The robot will primarily assist MEDU, a specialized team trained to respond to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive threats in the Portland metropolitan area. Spot will be deployed in situations involving potential explosives, hazardous materials, or armed suspects.

It can also serve in rescue operations, such as searching through debris, where it reduces risk to human responders. Equipped with cameras, microphones, and sensors, Spot can investigate suspicious items, monitor air quality, and act as a communication conduit during critical incidents.

K103 reported that Spot was purchased in November 2024 for approximately $150,000 using FEMA grant funds, Spot is designed to assist in hazardous and complex environments.

Spot underwent scenario testing at the new Portland International Airport terminal before its deployment, ensuring its suitability for complex environments like airplanes, mass transit, and disaster-damaged areas. It provides law enforcement and emergency responders with a tool for safely accessing spaces that would otherwise pose significant risks.

Similar robotic technology is already in use in Oregon, with the National Guard employing it for patrols and Oregon State University researchers using it on Mt. Hood for space exploration studies, as reported by KPTV.