Cleveland Expands AI Security, Spotlighting AITX's Robotic Guards

DETROIT, MI – December 29, 2025 – A recent television feature on News 5 Cleveland has cast a spotlight on the city's expanding smart security program, showcasing the prominent role of AI-driven robotic guards in enhancing downtown safety. The segment highlighted the RIO and ROSA security platforms from Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD), a subsidiary of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (AITX), as the city widens its deployment following a successful pilot program credited with a measurable drop in crime.

The mainstream media coverage signals growing public awareness of a high-tech initiative that is transforming public safety in Cleveland. What began as a trial in the city's central Public Square has evolved into a comprehensive network of more than thirty RAD devices. These AI-powered units are now operational across key high-traffic zones, including the vibrant Playhouse Square theater district and the scenic North Coast Harbor, home to major attractions.

According to Downtown Cleveland leadership, the results have been tangible. Officials report a significant year-over-year reduction in serious crime within the downtown core, coupled with an encouraging increase in pedestrian activity. This dual impact—improving both the reality and the perception of safety—has been the primary driver behind the program's continued expansion.

The Cleveland Model: A Blueprint for Urban Safety

The success of the Cleveland deployment offers a compelling case study in modern urban management. By integrating RAD's autonomous security devices with the city's Real Time Crime Center, officials have created a responsive and proactive security ecosystem. The technology acts as a force multiplier, allowing human officers to focus on more complex and strategic tasks while the AI handles initial detection and deterrence.

"This coverage reflects what happens when AI-powered security is deployed with purpose and accountability,” stated Troy McCanna, Chief Security Officer and Chief Revenue Officer of RAD. “The value is not just in detection, but in resolving routine issues before human intervention is required. When cities can address safety concerns early and consistently, it improves outcomes on the ground and strengthens public confidence in shared spaces.”

This approach is central to the technology's effectiveness. The robots are not simply passive cameras; they are active participants in maintaining order. Equipped with advanced analytics, they can identify and respond to loitering, trespassing, and other non-threatening but potentially disruptive activities with automated alerts, lights, and audio messages. This capability to de-escalate minor situations prevents them from evolving into more serious incidents, contributing directly to the reported crime reduction.

Meet the New Guards: RIO and ROSA

At the heart of Cleveland's initiative are two distinct but complementary RAD products: RIO and ROSA. RIO, a towering, solar-powered security tower, provides a highly visible and imposing presence. Its height and robust design make it an effective deterrent in open areas like public squares and parking lots. It is equipped with high-resolution cameras, powerful lighting, and two-way audio communication, creating a 360-degree security bubble.

ROSA, by contrast, is a more compact and versatile unit. Designed to be mounted on poles or walls, it is ideal for monitoring specific chokepoints such as building entrances, walkways, and loading docks. Despite its smaller size, ROSA packs the same powerful AI analytics and response capabilities as its larger counterpart. Together, RIO and ROSA create a layered security network that can be tailored to the unique geography and challenges of any urban environment.

The deployment of these units reflects a strategic shift in security philosophy. Rather than relying solely on reactive human patrols, the system provides persistent, 24/7 monitoring and deterrence at a fraction of the cost of traditional security services.

AITX's Vision for AI-Powered Security

For parent company AITX, the Cleveland program is a validation of its broader vision and business model. AITX is positioning itself as a disruptor in the nearly $50 billion U.S. security services industry by offering its technology through a Solutions-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. This subscription-based approach eliminates the high upfront capital expenditure typically associated with advanced security hardware, making it accessible to a wider range of clients, including municipalities, schools, and commercial enterprises.

The company projects that its solutions can deliver cost savings of between 35% and 80% compared to the recurring expense of manned security guards. This economic advantage, combined with the technology's proven effectiveness, forms the core of its value proposition.

Reinforcing its credibility with enterprise and government clients, AITX recently completed a successful SOC 2 Type 2 audit. This rigorous, independent evaluation validates that the company's internal controls for managing and protecting customer data are not only designed correctly but are operating effectively. In an era of heightened concern over data privacy and cybersecurity, such compliance is a critical differentiator, particularly when partnering with public sector entities like the City of Cleveland.

Leadership and Market Ambitions

The strategic direction of AITX and RAD is guided by a team of seasoned industry veterans. CEO and founder Steve Reinharz is a prominent figure in the security world, serving as chair of the Security Industry Association’s (SIA) Autonomous Solutions Working Group. The leadership team also includes former FBI Special Agent Troy McCanna and Stacy Stephens, a co-founder of security robotics competitor Knightscope. This deep bench of expertise in security, law enforcement, and robotics provides the company with a unique advantage in developing practical, real-world solutions.

With the Cleveland deployment serving as a powerful proof of concept, RAD is actively engaging with other cities and Business Improvement Districts looking to replicate this success. The company reports a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies, indicating significant commercial interest in its technology. As more organizations seek cost-effective ways to enhance safety and operational efficiency, the demand for autonomous security solutions is expected to grow, and Cleveland's positive experience provides a clear and compelling roadmap for others to follow.