A woman in Philadelphia was arrested by police after blocking an autonomous delivery robot and protesting job losses. The incident has sparked debate over the line between workers' livelihoods and protests in public places as delivery automation using robots expands.

On Oct. 18 local time, The Verge reported that Carolyn Marvin (캐럴린 마빈) was charged with disorderly conduct after blocking an Uber Eats delivery robot and refusing police orders to move.

The incident occurred near Reading Terminal Market in Center City, Philadelphia. Police responded after receiving a report of a disturbance around 1200 Filbert Street.

Police said Marvin repeatedly interfered with the robot's movement and did not comply with several orders to step back. Video showing police handcuffing and taking her away spread online.

Marvin said in an interview with local broadcaster 6abc that she believes delivery robots are taking jobs from human workers. She said she has protested by blocking robots whenever she encounters them and argued her actions fall under constitutionally protected free speech. She also said she staged a similar protest in September and intends to continue demonstrating.

Uber Eats began an unmanned delivery service in Center City, Philadelphia, in March in cooperation with robot developer Avride. The sidewalk-travelling robots carry ordered food, and users can track delivery status through an app.

In April, a delivery robot was kicked by a passerby and knocked over.

The arrest highlighted the issue of how far the right to oppose the introduction of robots extends and what constitutes obstruction of actual operations. It is not yet known whether Marvin's claims will be legally accepted or what the outcome of the case will be.

It has also not been confirmed how much the introduction of robots has actually reduced jobs for delivery workers in Philadelphia. The incident shows the need for social discussion on worker protections, sidewalk-use rules and other issues as autonomous delivery technology spreads.