Drones will be aiding law enforcement during emergencies.
The Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) is starting a Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) program.
These devices won’t be used on regular patrols, for random surveillance, or as a weapon, according to a release from the Public Information Office. Instead, they will assist with finding missing people, documenting crime scenes, and incidents involving hostages.
The drones will follow all guidelines, including those set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Code of Virginia.
Five officers who finished the FAA Part-107 pilot certification course will make up the unit.
For years, the PWCPD has stayed updated on changes to sUAS technology. It created a committee, which researched drone use in public safety.
