Mercedes-Benz Stadium Discusses BENZIE's Role in Perimeter Security

Mercedes-Benz Stadium has become a leader in adopting innovative security technologies to strengthen its perimeter security program while allowing security personnel to focus on higher-value responsibilities. As part of that effort, the venue deployed BENZIE, a robotic security dog powered by Asylon’s automated security platform.

The results of that deployment are explored in greater detail in our Mercedes-Benz Stadium case study, which highlights how automated patrols, real-time situational awareness, and proactive deterrence have helped support the stadium’s security operations.

In this interview, ATL Live Reporter Andrew Tyree sits down with Greg Overstreet, Director of Security at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, to discuss how BENZIE operates in the field, how the technology supports security personnel, and why the stadium continues to invest in innovative security solutions. Their conversation also explores the role of automation in modern venue security and how Mercedes-Benz Stadium evaluates emerging technologies to enhance safety for guests, staff, and the surrounding community.

Read the full interview transcript below.

Andrew Tyree, ATL Live Reporter: Hey guys, we’re here at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Today we’re going to take a look at BENZIE, the robot dog that’s been keeping the perimeter of this stadium secure. I’m so lucky to have Greg Overstreet, the Senior Director of Security here at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with us. Thanks so much for having us.

Greg Overstreet, Director of Security at Mercedes-Benz Stadium: My pleasure.

Andrew: I really appreciate it. I want to have a conversation while we do a little walking. Do you think BENZIE will walk with us?

Greg: He will. He absolutely will. He’s so obedient.

Andrew: Oh my goodness. I’ve got to say, I’m about as far from a criminal as you can get, but that would really deter me.

Greg: Yeah, he definitely has a presence that will create some deterrent right from the beginning. You know, we’ve had numerous instances where folks have come into the Home Depot Backyard to potentially do something nefarious, and just at the sight of him walking over to check it out, they’ve decided to go elsewhere.

Andrew: So what is BENZIE’s protocol? Obviously, BENZIE can’t arrest anyone or take someone into custody, but what can it do if it sees something that shouldn’t be happening?

Greg: First of all, BENZIE frees our officers up to build more personal relationships with guests and staff. He takes on the dull, mundane, and potentially dangerous tasks so our officers can focus on higher-value work. As far as what he can do, he patrols the area and reports back to our security team, giving us real-time situational awareness. An officer who might otherwise walk into a situation without knowing what’s happening can see exactly what’s going on through the information BENZIE provides.

Andrew: BENZIE can see around dark corners and check areas that you or I might not want to enter without knowing what we’re walking into.

Greg: One thing he does very successfully is inspect areas like the Conex boxes behind us. Occasionally, one may be left unlocked or equipment may be left out, and BENZIE alerts us so we can address it.

Andrew: I’d love to see what BENZIE can do. Can we get a little demonstration?

Greg: Absolutely. He doesn’t need much rest, and he’s always happy to show people what he can do.

Andrew: Let’s do it. Whenever you introduce something new that people haven’t seen before, there’s usually a moment when you’re not sure how much impact it’s going to have. Then suddenly you realize, “Wow, this is amazing.” Was there a moment like that with BENZIE? A time when you thought, “I’m really glad we have him?”

Greg: It didn’t take very long. Within the first month, we experienced some vandalism attempts around the area, and BENZIE was able to respond and help deter that activity. It became clear very quickly that there was going to be a real benefit to having him here.

Andrew: What about mistakes? We always hear concerns about technology making errors. Can BENZIE make mistakes? How can people feel confident that they won’t be misidentified if they’re simply tying their shoe or carrying something that might look suspicious?

Greg: Well, that’s a great question. BENZIE is observing and reporting, and so what he’s doing is he’s giving us that information we need to make a valid decision, or a better decision, when we approach that person with the information he’s been able to send back to us.

Andrew: What’s the future of security at Mercedes-Benz Stadium?

Greg: Number one, we love using technology to help our officers perform at their best. We have advanced security screening technology, drone detection systems, and many other tools that our organization has invested in to strengthen our security posture. As for BENZIE, we plan to continue relying heavily on Asylon and on the technology improvements that continue to be developed. One thing we pride ourselves on is being at the forefront of innovation. We want to be among the first stadiums to implement influential technologies that improve our security posture.

Andrew: I love that. How do I get one?

Greg: I think they’d be happy to sell you one. He’s great with children, too.

Andrew: I’ve got some kids at home who would probably love that.  Well, I hope they get to come visit the stadium soon. I haven’t been here before. It was a pleasure meeting you.

Greg: Pleasure meeting you as well. Thank you.