MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Sideshows, commonly referred to as street takeovers, are becoming increasingly problematic in Memphis. In response, the Memphis Police Department is turning to innovative solutions in the form of artificial intelligence technology provided by Flock Safety.
This partnership seeks to implement a novel sideshow detection system employing existing surveillance cameras throughout the city. Holly Bellin, Director of Communications for Flock Safety, highlighted that this technology will enable law enforcement to receive real-time alerts regarding active sideshows.
Bellin remarked, ‘It will actually help officers in Memphis be alerted to sideshows and be able to head off these events before they get out of control.’ The AI technology is designed to recognize various sounds, including the distinct noise of screeching tires that typically accompany these dangerous events.
‘The machine-learning algorithm can distinguish the unique sound of screeching tires that we see in sideshow events,’ she explained. ‘So typically, these are tires that are going around and around in circles or stopping very quickly.’
This proactive approach aims to prevent escalating violence associated with these gatherings. Bellin emphasized the importance of intervening before these events grow larger, stating, ‘Once an event gets big enough, then it becomes a real problem.’
In a statement, the Memphis Police Department expressed confidence in the new technology, declaring, “We’re confident that this powerful tool will make a difference in keeping Memphis residents safe.”
Through this initiative, Memphis aims to enhance public safety and tackle the challenges associated with street takeovers, paving the way for more secure communities.
