By Mitch Hotts
The Macomb Daily, Mount Clemens, Mich.
CLINTON TOWNSHP, Mich. — Clinton Township police say a drone proved to be an “invaluable tool” in helping officers arrest an accused armed arsonist earlier this week.
Officers Thursday released some of the drone’s video footage shot from above the suspect’s car, which showed he was in the vehicle before police swooped in to arrest the surprised defendant.
“The drone was an invaluable tool during this incident,” police said in a statement.
Cody Krantz , 23, of Clinton Township , was arraigned Tuesday, Aug. 19 in 41B District Court after he was charged with first-degree arson, home invasion, and malicious destruction of property.
Magistrate Ryan Zemke set bond at $500,000, court records show. Krantz is being held at the Macomb County Jail .
According to police, the incident happened shortly after midnight on Aug. 18 when officers responded to a call of an armed man setting objects on fire in an apartment complex near Joy Boulevard and Gratiot Avenue .
Police said during the investigation, an officer noticed the suspect’s vehicle was still in the parking lot.
That’s when officers deployed one the department drones. The drone pilot positioned the device one in front of the vehicle in order to see see potential occupants.
Officers observed the suspect sitting inside the vehicle “via the off-site in-car viewing monitor.”
With the drone still hovering over the vehicle, officers converged on the suspect and were able to make the arrest without resistance.
Investigators later determined multiple objects inside the apartment had been set on fire, including a portion of the structure itself.
Authorities also recovered a pistol from the car.
If convicted of the most serious charge, the arson allegation, Krantz could face up to life in prison.
The department again thanked the community for providing officers with funding for up-to-date training and equipment.
Earlier this month, voters approved a 10-year millage renewal on a 62.7% to 373% tally, according to the Clinton Township Clerk’s Office. Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem said the renewal is expected to generate $9.6 million a year, or about one-third of the total police budget.
“With the continued millage support from our township residents, your officers have the proper tools and training to safely apprehend these dangerous and violent suspects,” the department said Thursday.
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