The complete article can be found at AlabamaNewsCenter.com. By Adam Jones University of Alabama Engineering and communication researchers at the University of Alabama are building the next generation of law enforcement robotic technology, working toward affordable robots that can interact directly with civilians in hazardous situations. Supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation, the project partners with several state law enforcement agencies, including the Tuscaloosa Police Department (TPD), that are providing feedback to help the researchers build a prototype robot that will meet officers’ needs while enhancing safety and effectiveness in potentially dangerous situations. “We are hoping that our human interactive robots will make a safe environment by distancing civilians and officers from dangerous situations,” said Nader Jalili, principal investigator and lead on the project, as well as professor and head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.