PROSPER, Texas — The Prosper Police Department has rolled out a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, deploying Flock Safety’s Aerodome platform to send automated drones to calls across town.
The air-based system employs Detect and Avoid radar, integrates with Flock911 and license plate readers and can fly up to 400 feet. A separate patrol-based drone fleet, flown by FAA-certified officers, will complement the automated launches.
Grant funding from the Texas Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority’s Auto Theft Reduction Grant helped purchase the Aerodome hardware. Drones sit in battery-swapping docks positioned around Prosper. The drones can launch remotely and reach most scenes in about 86 seconds, a response time comparable to helicopters at a fraction of the cost, the department said.
“By integrating these advanced drone programs into our operations, we are providing our officers with a powerful tool that significantly enhances safety and service for our community,” said Chief Doug Kowalski. “These programs offer many of the same benefits as helicopters, enabling us to respond to critical incidents with greater precision and effectiveness, ultimately transforming our approach to public safety.”
Mayor David Bristol said the initiative reflects the council’s commitment to cutting-edge technology, while Flock Safety Vice President of Aviation Rahul Sidhu added the company is “honored to partner with Prosper PD” on the first Flock Aerodome deployment in Texas. Agencies already using the platform report a 71% average reduction in response times and resolve 20% of calls without dispatching patrol units.
Prosper PD and Prosper Fire-Rescue will host a public information session on the program at noon on May 20 in Town Hall. All drone flights are logged and publicly accessible through an online dashboard to ensure transparency and compliance with FAA regulations.
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