The Rockwall County Sheriff’s Office has introduced an innovative Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program, marking a major advancement in public safety technology. This initiative positions Rockwall County among a select group of Texas law enforcement agencies operating under a special FAA waiver that allows Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations.
Unlike traditional drone programs, Rockwall County’s DFR system deploys drones directly from the Communications Center, enabling rapid response to emergency calls. These drones often arrive on scene before deputies, providing real-time aerial video to assess situations and guide responding units. This approach improves officer safety, speeds up response times, and enhances decision-making during critical incidents.
Sheriff Terry Garrett stated, “This program represents our commitment to innovation and public safety. By utilizing drone technology, we can respond faster, operate smarter, and keep our community safer.”…