Photo: handelsblatt
Miami-Dade County has launched a pilot program featuring PUG, an autonomous patrol car developed through a partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and Policing Lab. The vehicle, based on a Ford Interceptor Utility and equipped with Perrone Robotics’ self-driving technology, is designed to monitor high-crime areas and transmit real-time data to command centers.
The PUG carries cameras, a thermal imager, license plate readers and even a drone launcher, enabling rapid response to incidents such as car thefts. According to Policing Lab executive director Marjolein Brüggeling, the system “enhances situational awareness, automates repetitive tasks and frees deputies to focus on complex, human aspects of policing.”
The year-long pilot will begin with community affairs operations. The vehicle will also appear at public events to gather feedback before any wider rollout. Authorities say the goal is to improve response times, deter crime, increase officer safety and strengthen public trust.
