The Kokomo Police Department today announced the official launch of its Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) program, more commonly known as a drone program. The new UAS Aviation program will utilize drone technology to increase officer safety, enhance emergency response, and improve situational awareness for critical incidents.
This new technology will act as a force multiplier, providing critical aerial support for a range of public safety incidents, including:
Search and rescue missions for missing persons
Assistance with tracking fleeing suspects
Documentation and reconstruction of serious accident and crime scenes
Monitoring of large-scale events and crowded areas
Response to high-risk incidents, such as barricaded subjects
The program is not intended for random surveillance, traffic enforcement, or routine patrol. Drones will be deployed only when there is a clear public safety need and will be operated by specially trained and certified officers.
Recognizing the public’s concerns regarding privacy and the use of technology, the Kokomo Police Department has established strict policies to govern the program. The department is committed to transparency and has adopted regulations to ensure responsible and ethical drone use, including:
Flight operations will be strictly limited to approved public safety objectives.
Protocols are in place for the collection, storage, and retention of data collected by the drones.
Flight logs will be made available to the public to promote accountability.
According to Kokomo Police Chief Douglas Stout, “The integration of drone technology is a significant step forward for public safety in our community, “Our drone program will help us resolve incidents more quickly and safely by providing our officers with real-time, crucial information. It allows us to gain a critical eye in the sky during dangerous or uncertain situations without putting additional officers at risk”.
All drone pilots are required to complete an FAA-certified training program and adhere to the department’s standard operating procedures.
The UAS Aviation Unit is commanded by Captain Richard Benzinger. The UAS Aviation Unit is comprised of Captain Richard Benzinger, Sgt.Tim Henninger, Officer Jeremiah Holbrook, and Officer Bennett Peterson. The Kokomo Police department is looking to expand the Unit and acquiring more drones in the near future.