Month: April 2023

New Research: 88% of Americans Are Anxious About Gun Violence; Nearly Half of Gun Owners Report Carrying Their Weapons More as a Result

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The survey, commissioned by Evolv Technology, quantifies Americans’ perceptions of gun violence and its impact on behavior  

 

Waltham, Mass. – (April 12, 2023) – Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV), the leader in AI-based weapons detection security screening, today announced the findings of a study – Gun Violence in America: A Survey on Americans’ Anxiety – it commissioned with market research firm Equation Research that reveals the toll gun violence is taking on Americans. The second-annual report highlights a dramatic increase in anxiety – and changes in behavior as a result – over the past 12 months.  

Key findings:  

  • 85% believe gun violence is a problem in America (vs. 78% in 2021)  
  • More than one-third believe it is likely they will encounter an active shooter in their lifetime (vs. 28% in 2021)  
  • Nearly 3 in 10 Americans have thought about moving [from their current home/location] out of fear of gun violence (vs. 12% in 2021)  
  • 22% believe they are more at risk of encountering an active shooter based on their religious affiliation (vs. 15.3% in 2021) 
  • Nearly half (47%) of gun owners say they are carrying their guns with them more today due to the increase in gun violence  
  • 1 in 5 non-gun-owning Americans say they plan to buy a gun; more than half indicating it’s as a result of America’s increase in gun violence  

“We believe this research demonstrates that, as Americans, we are all suffering collectively,” said Peter George, CEO, Evolv Technology. “Rather than becoming numb to the rise in gun violence, people are reporting that their anxiety levels are on the rise – and impacting other areas of their lives. It is making them reconsider the way they live their lives. The study shows increases in the number of people who have thought about moving and those who report higher levels of anxiety when they go to the movies and into a grocery store. It’s imperative that we learn from these findings and identify ways to address these rising levels of fear so we can all live, work, learn and play safely – without paralyzing levels of anxiety.”  

Watch Evolv’s Gun Violence Anxiety Report Key Findings Video

Watch Video

Anxiety is high among parents  

Following school shootings in Uvalde, Texas (May 2022) and Oxford, Michigan (November 2021), the research reveals that anxiety among people with children is high.  

  • Half of the households with children have considered homeschooling their children out of fear of gun violence  
  • 1 out of 2 have purchased, or are considering purchasing, “gun safety” materials, such as bulletproof backpacks 
  • Of those, 1 out of 4 did so because their children asked for them  
  • 3 out of 4 parents indicate that their child(ren) has some anxiety about school shootings  
  • 54% report their child(ren)’s anxiety has increased since 2020 

The findings highlight that Americans are concerned about the risk of shootings in everyday locations, but for many, some places provoke higher levels of anxiety than others.  

  • Thirty-seven percent (37%) of Americans list “large gatherings” as the top answer when asked where they have increased anxiety as a result of gun violence and/or terrorist activity (vs. 31% in 2021)  
  • Americans report increased levels of extreme/moderate anxiety at the following everyday places:  
  • Bar/night club: 71% (vs. 68% in 2021) 
  • Work: 60% (vs. 53% in 2021)  
  • Places of worship: 60% (vs. 58% in 2021)  
  • Movie theater: 64% (vs. 61% in 2021)  

The pervasive feeling of anxiety and worry carries over into what Americans are willing to do in order to reduce the threat of a mass shooting. When asked whether they would be willing to go through extra steps [to reduce those threats] at everyday locations, such as the grocery store, workplace or movie theater, they answered:  

  • Go through weapons detection screening: 67% (vs. 57% in 2021)  
  • Have bags checked: 59% (vs. 46%)  
  • Check guns at the door: 48% (vs. 44%)  
  • Be patted down by a security professional: 46% (vs. 37%)  
  • Only 12% would not be willing to go through these extra steps (vs. 22% in 2021) 
  • 3 out of 4 report feeling safer at places that screen for and do not allow weapons inside  

Click HERE for the full report.  

Survey Methodology 

Evolv Technology commissioned Equation Research to conduct the survey, which ran from December 7 to December 20 2022. The survey captured responses from a broad distribution of 2,015 adults in the U.S. aged 18 and older. 

About Evolv Technology 

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is transforming human security to make a safer, faster, and better experience for the world’s most iconic venues and companies as well as schools, hospitals, and public spaces, using industry leading artificial intelligence (AI)-powered weapons detection and analytics. Its mission is to transform security to create a safer world to work, learn, and play. Evolv has digitally transformed the gateways in places where people gather by enabling seamless integration combined with powerful analytics and insights. Evolv’s advanced systems have scanned more than 425 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. Evolv has been awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT) as well as the Security Industry Association (SIA) New Products and Solutions (NPS) Award in the Law Enforcement/Public Safety/Guarding Systems category. Evolv Technology®, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights®, and Evolv Cortex AI® are registered trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions. For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com. 

Forward-looking Statements 

Forward-looking Statements 

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended on December 31, 2022, that was filed with the SEC on March 24, 2023, as may be updated in other filings we make with the SEC. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.   

 

Media Contact: 
Alexandra Smith Ozerkis 
aozerkis@evolvtechnology.com 

 

Investor Contact: 
Brian Norris 
bnorris@evolvtechnology.com  

New Research: 4 out of 10 Educators Are Considering Quitting. The Reason? Gun Violence.

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The survey, commissioned by Evolv Technology, quantifies and reveals the toll gun violence in our schools is taking on teachers  

 

Waltham, Mass. – (April 12, 2023) – Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV), the leader in AI-based weapons detection security screening, today announced the findings of a study – Guns Violence in America: The Impact on Educators – it commissioned with market research firm Equation Research. The inaugural report reveals that gun violence is taking a significant toll on educators, with 9 out of 10 believing their chances of encountering an active shooter at work has increased over the past 12 months.  

 

Key findings:  

  • 1 in 3 respondents report having experienced a shooting at work (in a school setting)  
  • 1 out of 4 have been threatened by a student  
  • Sixty-one percent (61%) report their anxiety has increased over the past 12 months  
  • 4 out of 10 have heard students make threats against the school 
  • Twenty-two percent (22%) report being scared of one/more of their students 
  • Fifty-eight percent (58%) report being extremely/moderately anxious about going to work 

 

“These findings highlight a need for us, as a country, to do better for our educators,” said Jill Lemond, director of education at Evolv Technology & former assistant superintendent of safety and school operations for Oxford Community Schools. “Unfortunately, we haven’t equipped schools to deal with the anxiety, fear, and trauma students are bringing into the classroom. As a result, those on the frontlines – most of whom haven’t been trained in mental health – are bearing the burden of this national crisis. We are asking too much of them, and this research reveals the toll that is taking.”  

 

What’s behind the increase in anxiety among educators  

Seven out of ten respondents report that their anxiety has changed over the past 12 months, with 88% saying it has increased. The reasons they cite for that rise include:  

 

  • The increase in gun violence around the country – 55%  
  • Recent school shootings (such as Uvalde, TX) – 53%  
  • A recent violent incident at school – 27%  
  • Threats from students – 27%  
  • Threats from students’ parents/families – 27%  

 

Educators report the following responses and reactions to their increased anxiety:  

 

  • They take more mental health breaks – 45%  
  • They report being “jumpier” in certain situations – 38%  
  • “I feel like my mind is never operating at 100%” – 30%  
  • “I am not able to provide the highest quality of education I am capable of” – 28%  
  • “I have less patience with students, parents and colleagues” – 24%  

 

For educators who report taking mental health breaks, 1 out of 3 report that they find a quiet place and cry.  

 

How schools are prioritizing safety 

Eighty-seven percent (87%) of educators report that their schools are actively taking steps to prevent gun violence. Some of those activities include:  

 

  • Lock entrances – 50%  
  • Security guards at entrances/exits – 50%  
  • Conduct active shooter training/drills – 43%  
  • Security guards patrol the building – 42%  
  • Installed weapons detection/screening – 39%  

 

Eighty-one percent (81%) wish more could be done to ensure a safer environment at work; 49% cite they would feel safer if weapons detection/screening was in place at their school.   

 

The threat landscape inside our schools  

According to educators, current students present the highest risk of violence in a school setting (30%), followed by community members – not current students/families (24%) and past students (17%).  

 

The report highlights how frequently America’s educators are facing threats. Over the past six months, they report:  

 

  • Someone has made a threat against my colleague – 27%  
  • Someone brought a knife – 25%  
  • Someone brought a gun – 22%  
  • Someone made a bomb threat – 19%  
  • Someone made a threat against me – 16%  

 

According to educators, students are not OK  

Forty-three percent (43%) report that students are more anxious over the past 12 months than before, and 34% say they are more socially awkward and unable to read social cues. Three out of 10 report students are jumpier and more on edge, while 17% say they are quicker to anger.  

 

Forty-one percent (41%) have heard a student(s) make threats against the school, and more than half have heard them make a threat against another student(s).   

 

Lemond continued: “Half of the educators surveyed report that they spend 2-5 hours each month on safety-focused activities, such as active shooter drills. While we can talk for days about a school’s response to an active shooter, we want to help schools and educators design security protocols that keep the guns out. We hope these insights demonstrate the need to not only prioritize safety and security at our schools, but mental health – for both students and teachers.”  

 

Click HERE for the full report.  

 

Survey Methodology 

Evolv Technology commissioned Equation Research to conduct the survey, which ran from December 7 to December 12 2022. The survey captured responses from 263 education professionals in the U.S. 

 

About Evolv Technology 

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is transforming human security to make a safer, faster, and better experience for the world’s most iconic venues and companies as well as schools, hospitals, and public spaces, using industry leading artificial intelligence (AI)-powered weapons detection and analytics. Its mission is to transform security to create a safer world to work, learn, and play. Evolv has digitally transformed the gateways in places where people gather by enabling seamless integration combined with powerful analytics and insights. Evolv’s advanced systems have scanned more than 500 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. Evolv has been awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT) as well as the Security Industry Association (SIA) New Products and Solutions (NPS) Award in the Law Enforcement/Public Safety/Guarding Systems category. Evolv Technology®, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights®, and Evolv Cortex AI® are registered trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions. For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com. 

 

Forward-looking Statements 

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended on December 31, 2022, that was filed with the SEC on March 24, 2023, as may be updated in other filings we make with the SEC. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.   

 

Media Contact: 
Alexandra Smith Ozerkis 
aozerkis@evolvtechnology.com 

 

Investor Contact: 
Brian Norris 
bnorris@evolvtechnology.com  

  

Philadelphia Phillies Choose Evolv as Preferred Fan Screening Provider

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Artificial Intelligence-Powered Solution to screen fans at Citizens Bank Park beginning Opening Day 2023 

 

WALTHAM, Mass. – (April 6, 2023) – Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV), the leader in AI-based weapons detection security screening, today announced its partnership with the defending National League champion Philadelphia Phillies. 

Citizens Bank Park will feature Evolv’s state-of-the-art Evolv Express® screening solution beginning with the Phillies’ home opener on April 7, when they host the Cincinnati Reds. Fans will be able to walk through the entrance gates without always having to stop to open bags or be checked individually as they enter the ballpark. 

“Philadelphia fans are so passionate about their teams – we want that energy in the ballpark, not lined up outside,” said Sal DeAngelis, vice president of operations and security for the Phillies. “Evolv helps to get everyone in quickly and safely, and from a security standpoint they are great to work with and help us do our job better.” 

Evolv Express uses powerful sensor technology with artificial intelligence (AI) to provide safer, more accurate threat detection at unprecedented volume and speed. It allows security officials to tell the difference between threats and everyday items people carry in their pockets and bags. Citizens Bank Park is the third Philadelphia pro sports venue to implement Evolv.  

 “This is an exciting time for Evolv to partner with the Phillies,” said John Baier, Evolv’s vice president of sports. “Fans saw their team go to the World Series last year, and they look to continue that momentum on and off the field from the moment they arrive. With Evolv’s technology in the fold for 2023, fans can expect that same winning experience at the entrances as they get to the ballpark to see their Phillies play.” 

 Evolv is used at a growing number of facilities in all sports, including NFL stadiums like SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, as well as Major League Baseball’s Fenway Park in Boston and Citi Field in New York. 

 

About Evolv Technology 

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is transforming human security to make a safer, faster, and better experience for the world’s most iconic venues and companies as well as schools, hospitals, and public spaces, using industry leading artificial intelligence (AI)-powered weapons detection and analytics. Its mission is to transform security to create a safer world to work, learn, and play. Evolv has digitally transformed the gateways in places where people gather by enabling seamless integration combined with powerful analytics and insights. Evolv’s advanced systems have scanned more than 500 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. Evolv has been awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT) as well as the Security Industry Association (SIA) New Products and Solutions (NPS) Award in the Law Enforcement/Public Safety/Guarding Systems category. Evolv Technology®, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights®, and Evolv Cortex AI® are registered trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions. For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com. 

 

Forward-looking Statements 

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended on December 31, 2022, that was filed with the SEC on March 24, 2023.These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.   

 

Media Contact: 
Alexandra Smith Ozerkis 
aozerkis@evolvtechnology.com 

 

Investor Contact: 
Brian Norris 
bnorris@evolvtechnology.com 

 

Evolv Named Official Weapons Detection Screening Systems Provider of the 2022 MLB World Champion Houston Astros

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AI-powered technology the latest champion caliber, fan-friendly innovation at Minute Maid Park  

 

WALTHAM, Mass. – (April 4, 2023) – Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV), the leader in AI-based weapons detection security screening, today announced its partnership with the 2022 World Champion Houston Astros. 

The Astros began featuring Evolv’s state-of-the-art Evolv Express® screening solution at Minute Maid Park on Opening Day, March 30, when the Astros begin their 2023 season at home against the Chicago White Sox. Fans will be able to walk through the entrances at a quicker pace, making a more enjoyable security experience. 

“Evolv aligns perfectly with our recent efforts to use technology to improve the fan experience at Minute Maid Park,” said Marcel Braithwaite, Senior Vice President of Business Operations for the Astros. “The fact that it streamlines entry without sacrificing security makes it the ideal solution for us.” 

Evolv Express uses powerful sensor technology with artificial intelligence (AI) to provide safer, more accurate threat detection at unprecedented volume and speed. It allows security officials to identify threats versus the everyday items people carry in their pockets or bags without always having to stop and check everyone individually. 

“It’s exciting for Evolv to be a part of the innovative solutions the Astros are bringing to Minute Maid Park,” said John Baier, Evolv’s Vice President of Sports. “To see a team that just won the World Series continue to work to make things even better for fans is amazing. Evolv is thrilled to be a part of that drive to be the best.” 

 

Minute Maid Park’s Security and Bag Policy 

In compliance with MLB and Astros security policies, all guests entering Minute Maid Park are subject to inspection by handheld and walk-through metal detectors as well as other protocols deemed by security staff members. 

Bags exceeding 16” x 16” x 8” are prohibited. Backpacks are also prohibited (possible exceptions include diaper bags, single-compartment drawstring bags, and other bags used for medical reasons if they are within the MLB Bag Size requirements to not exceed 16” x 16” x 8”). All bags will be checked at all gates prior to entry. 

 

About Evolv Technology 

Evolv Technology (NASDAQ: EVLV) is transforming human security to make a safer, faster, and better experience for the world’s most iconic venues and companies as well as schools, hospitals, and public spaces, using industry leading artificial intelligence (AI)-powered weapons detection and analytics. Its mission is to transform security to create a safer world to work, learn, and play. Evolv has digitally transformed the gateways in places where people gather by enabling seamless integration combined with powerful analytics and insights. Evolv’s advanced systems have scanned more than 500 million people, second only to the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. Evolv has been awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT) as well as the Security Industry Association (SIA) New Products and Solutions (NPS) Award in the Law Enforcement/Public Safety/Guarding Systems category. Evolv Technology®, Evolv Express®, Evolv Insights®, and Evolv Cortex AI® are registered trademarks of Evolv Technologies, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions. For more information, visit https://evolvtechnology.com. 

 

Forward-looking Statements 

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements and information, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to our current expectations and views of future events. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events or our Company’s performance and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended on December 31, 2022, that was filed with the SEC on March 24, 2023, as may be updated in other filings we make with the SEC.  These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. 

 

Media Contact: 
Alexandra Smith Ozerkis 
aozerkis@evolvtechnology.com 

Investor Contact: 
Brian Norris 
bnorris@evolvtechnology.com