The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is adding new tech and tools to help deputies safely respond and deal with various situations.
In October 2022, TeamHCSO's Bomb Disposal Team had a new member join the squad; SPOT. The canine-like robot will inspect suspicious devices, and allow the technicians to operate remotely, and increase their safety. In addition, the Bomb Disposal Team will utilize SPOT when supporting our SWAT team. Using an advanced 360-degree camera capable of both thermal and infrared detection, it will search structures for subjects and provide SWAT with crucial intelligence prior to entering into a building.
"SPOT becomes the newest addition of six robots Team HCSO owns to use between our Bomb Disposal Team and our SWAT team," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This high-tech tool will allow us to continue to serve the residents of Hillsborough County more securely and safely when dealing with threats in the community."
SPOT is also equipped with several cameras, lights, and two-way communication that will be integral when deployed to assist our SWAT team. The agile robot can navigate a variety of terrain with ease and even enter buildings, no matter the type of door. This intelligence will enhance the safety measures for all our deputies. After members of the Bomb Disposal Team received training, SPOT, purchased at $284,000 and paid for with agency funds, became operational in November 2022.
"SPOT, our new robot, will be able to get into almost location, give us eyes inside dangerous situations, and allow us to communicate with suspects or people in danger," said Chronister. "The goal is always de-escalation, and SPOT will help us save lives."
To help transport SPOT, personnel, and as a potential command center, TeamHCSO is also using a new EOD Response Vehicle. The 2022 Freightliner Truck comes with a custom-built commander area, engineered and assembled by MBF Industries in Sanford, FL. The truck is 43-feet-long and features two slide-outs, two bomb technician workstations, a separate robot operator's room with two driving stations, and a custom lift capable of deploying 1,800 lbs of gear. The truck cost $593,140 and was primarily paid for by the Port Security Grant, and the rest with agency funds.
The new EOD Response Vehicle will serve not only Hillsborough County, but any of the seven surrounding counties we provide assistance. It will be able to remain on scene and be self-sufficient for extended operations. Now, all the gear and personnel needed for most callouts can be transported in one vehicle, vs. several smaller ones. In addition, it will provide ample work areas within the truck, allowing technicians to work in a controlled area instead of outside on folding tables and in the elements.
"This is another technological advancement that's going to help us better serve the community, but it's also going to help us keep our deputies safer," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Whenever you can keep a deputy out of danger, that's a great thing."
The new truck can serve as an EOD command post during special events like championship games, parades, times of crisis or severe weather, and extended operations. After receiving the truck in July, it became operational in August 2022.
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