The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO), in partnership with Policing Lab, has launched a year-long pilot program to test the nation’s first autonomous patrol vehicle, known as the Police Unmanned Ground (PUG) Patrol Partner.
The vehicle, developed with autonomy software from Perrone Robotics and AI-driven analytics, is equipped with 360-degree cameras, thermal imaging, and drone launch capabilities.
Designed to serve as a force multiplier, the PUG is intended to extend deputy resources, enhance situational awareness, and automate repetitive tasks. “This initiative offers law enforcement a smart high-tech partner in the field,” said Marjolijn Bruggeling, Executive Director of Policing Lab.
During the 12-month pilot, the PUG will be assigned to MDSO’s Community Affairs Bureau and showcased at public events to gather resident feedback. A community-facing tablet powered by Truleo’s TruAssist software will allow direct engagement with the public.
Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz said the program underscores Miami-Dade’s role in public safety innovation, noting that the vehicle can improve efficiency while deputies remain central to policing.
The pilot, which comes at no additional cost to Miami-Dade taxpayers, will measure impacts such as deterrence, response times, officer safety, and community trust. If successful, the program could become a model for other U.S. law enforcement agencies exploring autonomous patrol technologies.