A high school in Baltimore County, Maryland, is facing scrutiny after its AI-powered security system misidentified a bag of Doritos as a potential firearm. The incident led to a student being handcuffed and searched by police. The AI system, implemented in 2023, monitors school cameras and alerts authorities to possible threats. In this instance, the system misinterpreted the student's hand gesture while holding the snack.
Following the incident, Baltimore County officials are calling for a review of the AI system and the procedures that led to the police response. The school acknowledged the distress caused and is offering counselling to students affected. The company behind the AI system, Omnilert, expressed regret, stating the system is designed to identify potential threats for human review.
Bodycam footage revealed officers' surprise when they discovered the 'weapon' was just a bag of crisps. Council members are concerned about the potential trauma caused by such false alarms and are pushing for safeguards to prevent future errors.
