Baltimore to spend $153M for police Tasers, AI body cameras

Baltimore will spend $153 million over a 10-year period to replace its Police Department’s Tasers and introduce advanced body-worn cameras with artificial intelligence features.
The spending board approved a no-bid contract with Axon Enterprises for these technologies and related data management software, despite objections from two members.
The current contract renewal includes expanded AI capabilities for the body cameras to assist in translation, transcription, summarization, and footage search.
There is a two-year trial period to evaluate the AI functionalities and establish guidelines for their use; further purchase decisions will follow.
Critics on the Board, including Council President Zeke Cohen and Comptroller Bill Henry, opposed the deal due to lack of competitive bidding, whereas proponents highlighted Axon’s established presence and comprehensive service suite.
Axon’s products dominate the market for officer safety devices, including Tasers and body cameras, making switching difficult and more costly.
Motorola Solutions argued for an alternative approach to potentially save up to $50 million, labeling the no-bid contract as a lack of due diligence.
Police officials defended the Axon contract for offering no-cost upgrades and an existing familiarity reducing the need for time-consuming training adjustments.