The Police Department has been utilizing drone technology since 2014. While there were many restrictions surrounding the use of this technology, the department recognized their importance and the value they provided first responders. As a result of recently approved Federal legislation, the use of drones and drone components manufactured in China is banned. The Technical Operations Unit has identified United States-manufactured drones which are compliant with Florida law and can legally be operated by our agency. By way of thorough testing, evaluation and in-depth market research, we have identified two manufacturers which meet the operational necessities of a rapidly deployable and mission-ready drone. The total cost for this purchase is approximately $77,000, which was identified within the FY 2021-2022 budget. The purchase of three Skydio S2 drones was completed, and we are pending delivery. The purchase of three additional drones from the second vendor, Parrot, Inc. is in process. Upon delivery and completion of the certification process required for each operator, the plan is to begin deployment to the Operations Division. The department will continue to expand the drone program as additional funding is identified.
At this juncture, we plan to identify twelve officers who will be required to complete a comprehensive 40-hour, in-house training program in order to serve as a drone pilot. After successful completion of the training course, the operator will have the ability to safely operate a drone during high-risk operations, perimeters, alongside manned aircraft, and have the knowledge and ability to perform aerial grid searches. The pilot will also have completed the mandatory Federal Aviation Administration – Remote Pilot Certification preparation course to receive their authorization to operate the aircraft.
At the completion of the above phase, the police department will consider adopting the nationally recognized Drone as a First Responder initiative. This initiative, as envisioned, will provide responding officers with a “live view” from the drone in advance of their arrival on specific calls for service within the city. Having this situational awareness prior to arrival on the scene will better assist the first responders in the identification of persons involved and the resources necessary to handle the situation safely.
Current implementation schedule for 2022, includes the identification of qualified personnel in the Operations Division and begin the certification training course in the operation of drones. By early 2023, we plan to deploy at least one drone to each patrol shift, making them available for specific calls for service as conditions permit.