By Joanna Putman
Police1
NEW YORK— The NYPD is set to deploy drones to respond to 911 calls in Central Park as part of an effort to combat rising crime in the area, PIX11 reported.
The initiative, expected to expand on Aug. 23, is part of the department’s Drones as First Responders program, according to the report.
Drones are not just for stunning aerial shots anymore; they’re on the front lines of modern policing. From tracking suspects to aiding in emergency responses, this video covers the diverse roles drones play in law enforcement today.
Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry emphasized the role of drones in enhancing public safety.
“We are taking things to the next level to continue to keep crime down in Central Park,” Daughtry stated.
Drones have already proven effective in other areas, such as during a violent home invasion in Queens, where they quickly assisted in apprehending suspects.
The drones can canvass areas for suspects based on specific descriptions, providing valuable leads to officers on the ground, according to the report. Daughtry noted that while drones can reach crime scenes faster than officers on foot or in patrol cars, they are intended to complement, not replace, traditional policing methods.
Since the program’s initial rollout in May, drones have been used in various situations, including violent crime scenes and large crowds. The NYPD believes that this technology will continue to help reduce crime in the city, according to the report.
