Wave Welcome, a startup based in Maryland, is utilising artificial intelligence and drone technology to combat the widespread problem of gun violence in the US. The company is currently in the process of developing real-time firearm detection technology, with the aim of alerting law enforcement to any armed intruders and providing live video feeds before any emergency calls are made.
Established in 2020, Wave Welcome primarily operates as an IT company, generating revenue from the management of internal IT systems for various businesses, universities, and government organizations. With the profits from this venture, the company is able to invest in side projects, one of which includes the development of PerVista, their gun detection technology. The software is currently available for commercial use in the Washington D.C. and Baltimore areas, with plans to expand to other parts of the US in the coming year.
Situated in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Wave Welcome is located in a community that has a demographic composition differing significantly from the national average, with a 64% Black and 20% Hispanic or Latino population. As a Black man deeply connected to his local community, Vennard Wright, the company’s CEO and founder, is driven by his desire to uplift and empower his neighbourhood. His commitment to addressing these pressing societal issues has led him to become a prominent figure in the AI space, particularly as one of the few Black founders working in this sector.
PerVista’s innovative AI technology is designed to monitor security cameras and identify firearms in real-time. Once a weapon is detected, the system automatically notifies security personnel and law enforcement, providing them with vital information to address the situation. The company has conducted extensive testing of the technology, achieving a 100% success rate in identifying weapons with a confidence level of 90%.
It is evident that the potential applications of Wave Welcome’s technology are extensive, with schools, office buildings, sports venues, concerts, and shopping malls being identified as potential markets for the product. However, the introduction of such surveillance systems comes with privacy concerns and ethical considerations, particularly when it comes to potential infringements on individuals’ rights to privacy.
While the implementation of gun detection technology may serve as a short-term solution to address active shooter incidents, it is essential to recognise that the root causes of gun violence, such as mental health issues, social exclusion, and anger management problems, must also be addressed in order to effect lasting change. As such, investing in mental health screenings, guidance counselling, and regulating the storage and use of firearms are equally important aspects of mitigating gun violence.
In conclusion, Wave Welcome’s commitment to developing AI gun detection technology represents a step forward in addressing the escalating issue of gun violence in the US. However, it is essential that a holistic approach is taken to understand and tackle the complex societal issues that drive these acts of violence. Efforts to promote mental health support, conflict resolution skills, and stricter firearm regulations should be prioritised in conjunction with technological innovations to create a safer and more secure environment for all.
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