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Episode 21

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Published on:

25th Aug 2026

Cameras as Super Sensors: Drones, Cloud, and AI in Modern Command Centres

In this episode of Security Tech Talk, host Steve Kenny sits down with Eddie Reyes, a US law enforcement veteran whose career spans frontline policing, emergency communications, and public safety technology. Describing Eddie as a rare "security unicorn," Steve highlights his unique ability to combine decades of operational experience with a genuine passion for emerging security technologies. Together, they explore how AI, cloud connectivity, drones, and intelligent video are reshaping command centres—and why experience on the ground remains essential for making technology truly effective.

Drawing on more than three decades of experience - from carrying six-shot revolvers and shoulder-mounted VHS cameras in 1980s Washington, D.C., t to directing a 120-person 911 emergency communications centre and managing security for luxury megaprojects in the Middle East—Eddie reflects on how public safety technology has evolved. Along the way, Steve and Eddie explore why cameras should now be viewed as intelligent "super sensors" and discuss AI-powered analytics, live video dispatch, drones as first responders, and why human-in-the-loop AI is essential for saving lives, reducing administrative burden, and helping security professionals make better-informed decisions.

About Our Guest:

Eddie Reyes is a decorated US law enforcement veteran with 28 years of frontline policing experience and four years as Director of a 120-person 911 emergency communications centre outside Washington, D.C.

Eddie has spent the latter part of his career advising municipalities, public safety organisations, and high-profile private sector developments across the UAE on public safety technology, command centre operations, and emergency communications.

Chapters:

  • (0:00:38) – The Security "Unicorn": Where Experience Meets Technology

Steve introduces the episode by discussing the industry divide between operational practitioners (law enforcement/military backgrounds) and technical engineers, identifying Eddie as an expert who bridges both worlds.

  • (0:02:51) – From Revolvers to Shoulder-Mounted VHS Cameras

Eddie shares how he accidentally fell in love with public safety technology in 1989, testing early tire-deflation pursuit systems and carrying heavy VHS video cameras in his patrol car.

  • (0:05:01) – Transitioning to Command & Control: The 911 Dispatch Experience

Eddie details his shift from field patrol officer to managing a major 911 communications centre, highlighting how real-time data feeds empower dispatchers to act as vital crime-fighters for officers in the field.

  • (0:06:43) – Cameras as "Super Sensors"

Why modern cameras are no longer mere "CCTV." Eddie explains how combining AI-driven visual analytics, environmental sensing, and two-way radio communication creates an indispensable operational asset.

  • (0:09:02) – Beyond Security: Lost Children and Megaprojects

Steve and Eddie discuss how surveillance sensors deliver daily operational value beyond crime prevention—ranging from locating lost children in busy resorts to managing emergency response at pools.

  • (0:13:02) – Overcoming False Positives with 5G, Cloud, and AI

How information overload and false alarms erode operator trust. Eddie and Steve review how cloud routing, 5G wireless transmission, and AI processing have restored confidence in control room analytics.

  • (0:19:43) – Live Video Dispatch and Real-Time Bodycam Translation

Eddie shares ground-breaking public safety developments in the US, including live video caller streaming to 911 centres and AI body-worn camera language translation in the field.

  • (0:23:59) – Drones as First Responders (DFR)

Using autonomous drones for building inspections, remote maintenance, and rapid first-responder deployment to beat patrol cars to emergency scenes.

  • (0:26:30) – AI Documentation & Human-in-the-Loop Validation

Eddie explains how AI can automatically generate comprehensive incident timeline reports, saving hours of manual paperwork while keeping humans in the loop for critical decision-making.

  • (0:32:51) – Retention, Complacency, and the 3-Year Technology Refresh

Addressing operator fatigue in 12-hour shifts, overcoming technology complacency, and why organisations must evaluate their security hardware lifecycle every three years to mitigate cybersecurity risks.

Resources:

Meet your host Steve Kenny:

Steve has spent 15 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high-profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training.

Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/

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About the Podcast

Security Tech Talk
Conversations with security industry disruptors and innovators
We talk to security industry leaders, disruptors, and innovators with strong views and opinions on the future of topics like physical security, smart buildings, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and more. We dig into the latest tech trends, explore how security is shaping the world, and delve into those tricky regulations (like NIS2, the Cyber Resilience Act, the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, the UK's Product Security, Telecommunications, Infrastructure Act and more) that keep everyone on their toes. We are here to talk about technology trends, explore the big issues facing the security industry, and provide valuable insights that will support you and your business. Join us as we uncover important information to help you come away feeling well-educated and prepared for the future. This podcast is brought to you by Axis Communications Inc. - innovating for a smarter, safer world.

About your host

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Steven Kenny

Steven Kenny – Manager, Architecture & Engineering Program – EMEA, Axis Communications.
With two decades of experience in the security industry, Steven Kenny has played active roles in numerous high-profile projects, both domestically and internationally. Over the last eleven years, his focus has been on understanding how security technologies can best support business security strategies, all while advocating for the heightened importance of cybersecurity and compliance within the physical security field.

Currently leading a team of Architect and Engineering managers across the EMEA region, Steven remains committed to contributing positively to global security practices. He is actively involved in industry associations and international standards organizations, seeking to collaboratively shape the landscape of security.

In a more behind-the-scenes capacity, Steven has provided consultative support to a national steering group instrumental in establishing the Secure by Design, Secure by Default certification. His close collaboration with the UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner reflects his dedication to enhancing standards in the physical security sector. As a speaker at international security conferences, Steven has modestly shared insights that have contributed to the industry's development and the identification of key technology trends.

Beyond his professional commitments, Steven has volunteered his expertise, previously serving as Director of Systems, Information, and Cyber Security for ASIS International and the UK chapter, before being elected as a board director. He also serves on the EMEA Advisor Council as the emerging technology lead for TiNYg (Global Terrorism Information Network). Additionally, he contributes to various standards committees supporting IoT security and plays a role in the BSI Private Security Management and Services. Steven Kenny's humble dedication has made a meaningful impact on the global security landscape, positioning him as a valued contributor to the industry.