Police and sheriff’s departments across the U.S. are using AI-powered drones for pursuits, investigations and emergencies — locally, one’s thermal imaging helped rescue a missing woman with frostbite last winter.
Why it matters: Drones may ease staffing shortages and make police work easier, but using them also raises new questions about surveillance, privacy and regulations.
The big picture: At least 1,500 police and sheriff’s departments were flying drones by late 2024, a 150% increase since 2018, per Police1.com, a law enforcement news site.
- An Axios analysis found that almost every major metropolitan area in the country has a law enforcement agency with a drone system, even if the largest city has yet to adopt the technology or publicly announce its use.
Follow the money: Ohio’s latest state budget included $2.5 million for a two-year Drones for First Responders pilot program covering costs and training. It’s currently accepting applications…