Police Robots Could Be Coming To Edina As Phillips Seeks Federal Funds

EDINA, MN — The Edina Police Department could be using small robots as soon as next year, after Rep. Dean Phillips requested federal funding to purchase the devices.

Phillips is seeking $77,420 in federal funds for Edina police to buy four small robots that he described as “handheld, two-wheeled, remote-controlled devices” from ReconRobotics that can send audio and video directly to an officer within 450 feet of the robot.

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The robots are meant to “gather intelligence and monitor areas” without putting police officers in potentially dangerous situations, Phillips said.

Members of Congress can request funding for up to 15 specific projects in their districts that "serve the public good" as part of the appropriations process.

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Phillips also requested $2.75 million for the Highway 610 Extension Project in Maple Grove and $2 million to expand the emergency department at Maple Grove Hospital, among other projects.

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