PSPD gives inside look at robot technology used to de-escalate standoffs 

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - In two recent standoffs involving suspects across the Valley, the Regional SWAT Team and local police departments have used technology to de-escalate incidents. 

Namely, wireless robots have entered homes or buildings to scope out the scene before officers do. 

"Either the robot or their drone has actually seen people inside the residence, people that we were trying to communicate with and that is a huge advance. Before not having those resources, we would have to depend on our officers to safely go in there and secure the residence without knowing who we're going to encounter," Lt. Mike Villegas of Palm Springs Police said.

The robot can climb stairs, open doors, has a claw to hold objects, and four cameras to give officers a 360-view of the scene.

Despite all it's uses, Lt. Villegas says their technology is getting older, as prices get higher.

"It's just very expensive. With our drones, which are not as expensive, they have the tools to clear buildings. So they both have different like responsibilities as to how we deploy them," Lt. Villegas said.

The department has up to 10 drones used in standoff situations, packing less of a price punch at around $1,000 each. Officers say the robots can range up to $45,000.

Still, they say they're hopeful to buy a new one soon, for better technology like cameras, battery life and mobility.