Recent changes to municipal code allow officers to cite property owners based solely on drone video evidence that positively identifies residents using fireworks. Property owners can receive multiple $1,500 citations, with violations potentially cited every 24 hours.
“We’re a force multiplier, meaning that we can do more with less,” said Sgt. Macias of the Riverside Police Department. “That frees up officers to go out and actually do other officer duties.”
The program uses multiple models of retail DJI drones available at stores like Best Buy, with officers actively operating the devices to collect evidence. The drones are not autonomous surveillance systems.
Some models offer longer flight times and extended range for sustained operations, while more compact and durable versions can operate in tight spaces and even fly indoors when circumstances require…