The Folsom Police Department has been awarded $74,726 in grant funds from the Department of Homeland Security to enhance its SWAT team’s operational capabilities. The funds, awarded through the California Office of Emergency Services, will be used to purchase a new ICOR Mini Caliber Robot, a specialized tactical device designed for rapid-response missions and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD).
The grant was officially accepted by the Folsom City Council following the adoption of a resolution Tuesday night, marking a significant step forward for the department in maintaining cutting-edge technology for critical incidents. The police department originally applied for the grant in December 2023 through the State Homeland Security Grant Program, specifically to replace its aging tactical robot.
Replacing Outdated Equipment
The Folsom Police Department’s current robot, a Robotex Avatar, is over a decade old. While still functional for some tasks, it lacks critical modern features, such as the ability to manipulate doors or provide two-way communication. To complicate matters, the company that manufactured the Robotex Avatar is no longer in business, leaving the department without technical or repair support.
This situation has led the SWAT team to borrow similar equipment from other law enforcement agencies when dealing with high-risk scenarios. The acquisition of the ICOR Mini Caliber Robot will resolve this issue, providing the department with a state-of-the-art tool that will not only enhance SWAT operations but also align with the latest de-escalation tactics required by California law.
Advanced Capabilities of the ICOR Mini Caliber Robot
The new ICOR Mini Caliber Robot is designed for tactical missions that require the utmost precision and safety. Operated via a handheld controller, the robot offers a wide range of capabilities that make it ideal for high-risk situations. Its features include:
- The ability to remotely search rooms, hallways, stairwells, confined spaces, and undercarriages of vehicles.
- A two-way omnidirectional microphone that allows officers to communicate with suspects or victims from a safe distance.
- Video capabilities that give operators a live view inside structures or vehicles.
- An extendable, rotating claw capable of manipulating door handles, enabling access to areas that would otherwise require direct officer intervention.
In addition to these tactical uses, the robot is also part of a broader de-escalation strategy. It can deliver essential equipment, such as phones or medical supplies, to suspects or victims during extended incidents, reducing the need for direct human involvement and minimizing the risk to officers.
Training and Implementation
The Folsom Police Department expects a smooth transition to the new equipment. According to department officials, the SWAT team is already familiar with operating similar devices, and the necessary training for the new robot will be incorporated into their regular monthly schedule. This approach eliminates the need for additional training costs and ensures that the robot can be deployed effectively as soon as it arrives.
The manufacturer of the ICOR Mini Caliber Robot has provided an estimated lead time of nine months, meaning the department expects to receive and begin using the robot by June 2025. Once it is operational, the police department will update its existing Ordinance No. 1326 to reflect the addition of the new equipment.
Fulfilling California’s De-Escalation Mandates
The acquisition of the ICOR Mini Caliber Robot aligns with California’s evolving policies on law enforcement tactics, specifically those mandated by Assembly Bill 481, which requires a focus on de-escalation and the safe handling of potentially dangerous situations. By utilizing the robot’s advanced features, officers will be able to communicate with suspects and assess threats from a distance, allowing for a more measured response that prioritizes the safety of both law enforcement and civilians.
This grant award also satisfies the requirements of Government Code 7071(a)(1)(B), which mandates that law enforcement agencies receive approval from their local governing bodies before accepting funds for the purchase of military-grade equipment. The Folsom City Council had previously approved the use of military equipment in its 2024 report, including the planned acquisition of a new tactical robot, pending grant approval.
Financial Impact and Future Considerations
The $74,726 grant from the Department of Homeland Security comes with no local matching funds requirement, meaning the entire cost of the new robot, including all necessary equipment and technical support, will be covered by the federal funds. There are no anticipated additional costs for training, as the SWAT team’s monthly training schedule will accommodate the necessary education on the new equipment.
Once the funds are accepted, the grant award will increase revenue estimates and appropriations in the city’s General Fund by $74,726. This financial boost ensures that the department can move forward with the purchase without drawing on local resources.
With the new ICOR Mini Caliber Robot, the Folsom Police Department says it is poised to enhance its tactical operations while adhering to California’s strict de-escalation policies. The cutting-edge technology will help the department respond more effectively to a range of high-risk situations, ensuring the safety of both officers and the community.
