HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — The Huntington Beach Police Department (HBPD) is expanding its use of drones to improve emergency response times, marking a significant shift in how law enforcement deploys technology to support frontline operations. The agency’s newly launched Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program positions unmanned aircraft as rapid-response tools in emergencies, with police officials calling the initiative a “game changer” for both officers and the community, according to KABC.
A Remote Launch System to Speed Up Response
Unlike traditional drone units that require onsite piloting, HBPD’s DFR program operates drones remotely from the department’s Real-Time Crime Center. Once a service call comes in, pilots can launch drones directly from fixed positions around the city, rather than dispatching them from police vehicles.
This allows drones to take flight within seconds of a call and arrive on scene in under two minutes—dramatically faster than the average patrol car. “One of the biggest advantages of this program is how quickly we can get on scene to support investigations and prosecutions,” said Detective Taylor Davoren, a first-responder drone pilot. “In most cases, suspects or vehicle descriptions are critical, but if it takes an officer five minutes to arrive, those details might be gone.”
Currently, three drones are strategically placed across Huntington Beach: one downtown, and two more covering the north and central districts. Officials say the system will be fully operational within two weeks.
Reducing Strain on Patrol Units
Beyond faster response, HBPD views drones as a way to relieve pressure on patrol units. Police Lt. Chris Nesmith, who manages the drone program, pointed to other large agencies, including New York and Chicago, where drones now absorb up to 25% of service calls traditionally handled by officers…