Californians are pushing back against the rapid adoption of police drones, turning local policy hearings into contentious debates over privacy and surveillance.
The discussions are driven by privacy concerns and a 2021 law requiring local board approvals for “military equipment,” including drones. This has forced cities like San Francisco, Berkeley, Santa Ana, and Stockton to address public skepticism in hearings before expanding drone programs.
In San Francisco, the Police Commission voted 5-1 on October 14 to advance rules for the San Francisco Police Department’s 98 drones, despite public calls for a broader warrant requirement. The proposed order requires a warrant or a recognized exception only when focusing on the inside of a home or an enclosed yard not visible from a public spot. DroneXL reports that the order still needs approval from the Board of Supervisors…