Full Breakdown
Boston Dynamics Employees Petition Against ICE Robot-Dog Sale
By Drooid · · How we work
Sale of Spot Robots to ICE Sparks Employee Petition
In September, Boston Dynamics entered a $1.3 million contract to provide U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with four of its Spot robot dogs, along with additional Spot technology. The deal is being executed through a Connecticut third-party, Radeco, which adds a robotic arm, thermal camera and explosive-material sensors to the robots—nicknamed “Cerberus.” Dozens of employees, representing roughly 300 signatories (about half anonymous), submitted a petition warning that the sale could damage the company’s reputation, deter hiring, and associate staff with an agency they describe as “brutalizing civilians.”
Employee Concerns and Advocacy Opposition
Outside groups have also protested; Barbara Katzenberg of the De-Ice Action Network called the company’s reliance on ICE’s compliance “naïve” and organized demonstrations outside the Boston Dynamics headquarters.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
One source notes Boston Dynamics employs “more than 1,500 people,” while another cites “1,400 workers.” The precise workforce size remains unclear. Additionally, the company’s statement about future “mitigation measures” lacks detail, leaving the scope of any safeguards unspecified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I ask you to respect and accept this decision, even if you do not agree with it,” — Amanda McMaster, dynamics interim CEO — Amanda McMaster, interim CEO, Boston Dynamics.