Sector 542 technocratic Governor Sam Smith gave an announcement ...

  “There’s a growing trend of hacking robot guard companions with their safety features disabled. We realize there’s a growing crime rate, but vigilante roboticism cannot be tolerated ... Questions?”

  If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

  “Governor, how are people supposed to defend themselves when criminals have access to unregulated drones?”

  “We’re developing an EMP system ...”

  Jack Stewart shut off the holotube news and looked outside the portal of his domicile.

  Two neighbors’ robots battled arena-style with impact weapons and lasers. Meanwhile, a circle of other neighbors stood and watched placing bets over a community app.