Casinos in Nevada are currently unable to utilize an advanced AI firearm-detecting system, despite a series of fatal shootings in Las Vegas in recent months. The system, known as ZeroEyes, is being used by the Regional Transportation Commission in Nevada and at River Spirit Casino in Tulsa. The decision to implement this technology came after the deadliest solo mass shooting in US history occurred in Nevada, prompting establishments to seek out ways to prevent similar tragedies.
However, due to existing gaming laws in Nevada, casinos are restricted from using the ZeroEyes system. Rick Vonfeldt, President of the Las Vegas Security Chiefs Association and Vice President of Security at Caesars Palace, expressed his admiration for the technology after witnessing a demonstration at Caesar’s Horseshoe Las Vegas. Despite his praise, Vonfeldt explained that the system would not be permitted in Nevada casinos because it is monitored remotely rather than on-site, which is not in compliance with state gaming regulations.
On the other hand, Oklahoma tribal gaming laws do not have such restrictions, allowing River Spirit Casino to adopt the ZeroEyes system after a shooting incident at Tulsa’s Saint Francis Hospital in 2022. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation, which owns and operates the casino, found the technology to be a suitable solution for enhancing security measures without the need for intrusive metal detection arches at entry points.
The AI-powered system has been well-received by both the Muscogee Nation Gaming Enterprise and the Regional Transportation Commission, with officials noting its effectiveness in detecting firearms and improving response times to potential threats. However, concerns have been raised about the system’s ability to immediately identify and respond to detected firearms, as there may be delays in matching weapons to a database.
Overall, while the ZeroEyes system has proven beneficial in enhancing security measures in various settings across 40 US states, including schools, businesses, and government facilities, its implementation in Nevada casinos is currently hindered by state gaming laws. Despite the system’s potential to improve safety and prevent violent incidents, regulatory challenges must be addressed before it can be utilized in casinos in Nevada.