Key Highlights:
– NOPD to adopt Small Unmanned Aircraft System technology (sUAS), also known as drone technology, as a force multiplier and crime-fighting tool
– Seeking public feedback on draft departmental policy regarding use of sUAS
– Hosting public event to demonstrate sUAS technology and gather community input
– sUAS technology to be used for grid searches, weather events, disaster response, accident reconstruction, and more
– Aim to clear scenes quicker and free up officers to respond to other emergency scenes
– Technology to provide more efficient, cost-effective, and safer alternative to documenting scenes
– Draft policy constructed with input from Department of Justice and Federal Consent Decree Monitors
– Event on November 28 at NOPD Training Academy for community members to see sUAS technology firsthand
– sUAS program to gather crucial information without putting officers at risk and lessening harm to bystanders
– All flights to be conducted in accordance with FAA regulations and NOPD policies
– Respect for privacy rights of New Orleans residents and visitors, with sUAS only used for outlined purposes in NOPD policies and procedures
