Meet Hyper: Inside Santa Maria Police Department’s New A.I. Call Service

SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) - The Santa Maria Police Department launched a soft rollout of an artificial intelligence non-emergency call-taking system.

Powered by technology company Hyper, the system is designed to streamline non-emergency calls, reduce wait times and improve service for community members.

During the initial soft launch, the department is monitoring system performance in real time as calls are handled.

The technology directs callers to appropriate police resources, provides requested information, or connects callers with a dispatcher when necessary.

The department outlined guidelines for when residents should use the non-emergency system versus emergency services. 

The non-emergency line, accessible at (805) 928-3781, is designated for routine police matters, such as reporting past crimes, requesting information, making police reports, or seeking non-urgent assistance.

Emergency dispatch remains routed through 9-1-1. 

The Police Department emphasizes that 9-1-1 must be used for immediate threats to life or property, crimes in progress, serious injuries, fires and medical emergencies.

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