At the June 7 packet briefing, Round Rock Police Chief Allen Banks said the city has relied on the SWAT robots of neighbors, such as Cedar Park, in emergencies where they are necessary. SWAT robots climb stairs, video the inside of a building and allow law enforcement to communicate with suspects in emergency situations, particularly armed suspects.
For several years, the Round Rock Police Department has been without a SWAT robot, as its own is inoperable, Banks said.
"This council has been very supportive of us, as in the police department," Banks said. "We currently have drones; we're utilizing a lot of technology to help us in our jobs, keep our officers safe and also [protect] our citizens."
The $67,004.03 cost of the SWAT robot will be paid through the city's law enforcement fund.
