09/24/2026
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As St. Petersburg explores autonomous food-delivery robots, city officials are reportedly considering giving the machines a second job between orders: neighborhood patrol.
The proposal would complement SPPD’s expanding drone program. Under the plan, a large portion of the city’s $185 million police budget would fund integration with Flock and the Real Time Intelligence Center.
The Mayor’s Office, which recently racked up nearly $15,000 in Jimmy John’s and Hungry Howie’s purchases, is expected to be an early testing site. “The administration is excited to bring together its two top priorities: fast food and public safety,” a city spokesperson said.
Officials say the robots would remain on duty even while delivering meals. “When it’s bringing you tikka masala, it’s still on duty. It doesn’t matter whether it encounters a bank robbery or an expired parking meter. It’s not going to look the other way.”
Between orders, robots will patrol streets and alleys for code violations, parking infractions and anyone who doesn’t belong in the area, stopping to tell them to move along.
The proposal would also authorize robots to enter private property when necessary. “A robot can’t trespass in the traditional sense because it has no intent,” the spokesperson explained. “If looking over a fence can save one life, we have an obligation to use every tool available.”
Nearby robots could also be diverted to low-priority police calls until officers arrive. Vehicles flagged by Flock will trigger an “enhanced traffic-calming response,” with robots positioning themselves around the vehicle to restrict movement.
Early public reaction has reportedly been positive. “I think they’re adorable,” one resident said. “If you’re not doing anything wrong, you have nothing to worry about.”
Residents would be notified when deliveries are delayed because their robot is assisting law enforcement, and a credit would be applied to their account.
“At the end of the day, it’s not just bringing you lunch,” the spokesperson said. “It’s helping keep St. Pete safe, one delivery at a time.”
