The Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) is marking the first anniversary of its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, launched on Nov. 20, 2023. A police news release highlighted the program’s success in improving response times, enhancing situational awareness, and increasing operational efficiency.
Program Achievements
In its first year, the DFR program has reached several milestones:
- Expanded Service Area: The program now operates from three active sites, responding to over 1,670 calls for service.
- Improved Response Times: Drones arrived first in 71% of cases, averaging a response time of 71 seconds, often arriving in under a minute.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Drones enabled officers to clear 257 calls without dispatching patrol units, freeing more than 500 officers for other duties.
- Critical Assistance: Drones helped locate over 450 people, including crime suspects, individuals in mental health crises, and missing persons.
- National Recognition: MCPD became the first Major Cities Chiefs Association agency to adopt a DFR program. It also won the 2024 National Association of Counties Achievement Award in Criminal Justice and Public Safety.
The drones, equipped with live video feeds, often arrive before or alongside officers, providing real-time information to aid decision-making.
Key Case Highlight
On April 17, 2024, the “Raven 1” drone responded to an altercation at Georgia Avenue and Sligo Avenue in Silver Spring. The drone captured video evidence of an assault and tracked the suspect, enabling officers to make a safe arrest without force. The drone footage was pivotal in securing a jury conviction in Circuit Court.
Leadership and Community Support
“I could not be prouder of the success of our Drone as First Responder program,” said Chief Marc Yamada in the release. “This milestone represents countless hours of hard work turning a vision into reality.”
Chief Yamada credited the program’s success to collaboration among police executives, other law enforcement agencies, county leaders, and the community. “The support from our residents has been critical in ensuring we run a transparent and effective program,” he added.
Looking Ahead
MCPD plans to expand the DFR program to new areas, including Bethesda, to further enhance public safety services.
For more details, visit the MCPD Drone Program.
Related:
Police District Three Commander Trumpets ‘Huge Success’ of Drone Program
Police Drones as First Responder Program Expanding into Bethesda
Police Explain to Residents What Proposed Pilot Drone Program Is and Is Not
