Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office Deploys Nation's First Autonomous Police SUV

The Miami-Dade County Sheriff's Office has introduced PUG (Police Unmanned Ground), the first autonomous police patrol vehicle in the U.S., designed to support law enforcement rather than replace officers. Developed by the nonprofit Policing Lab and donated to the sheriff's office without taxpayer funds, the Ford SUV-like vehicle is equipped with 360-degree cameras, license plate readers, audio sensors, thermal imaging, a deployable drone, and touch screen windows. PUG will primarily patrol predetermined routes as a crime deterrent, display key public messages, and assist deputies by providing aerial footage and backup during emergencies. Initially, a deputy will ride in the vehicle to gather community feedback before full autonomous operation begins, with plans to deploy it across Miami-Dade County for events and hotspot patrols. The sheriff's office emphasizes that PUG will not engage in high-speed pursuits or highway driving and aims to enhance public safety and communication, particularly during emergencies like hurricanes. Critics raise concerns about privacy and surveillance implications, but officials highlight the vehicle's role as a technology tool to improve policing effectiveness and community engagement.