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Edited by: TJVNews.com
The Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) in New Jersey has adopted an innovative approach to law enforcement by integrating drones into their operational toolkit. According to the information provided in a report on the New Jersey 101.5 radio web site, this initiative, spearheaded by Lieutenant Mark Pancoast, has positioned the department at the forefront of modern policing techniques. As reported by 6 ABC and OCNJ Daily, this summer marks the inaugural season where drones will be actively used in various police operations.
The program, which kicked off in March, involves three drones operated by five Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-certified pilots within the department. These drones are not just supplementary tools but are pivotal in expanding the visual range of officers on the ground. As was reported by 101.5 radio, Lt. Pancoast highlighted the strategic advantage provided by drones, stating, “When we fly a drone, we can see 360 degrees, where the officers on the ground could only see what is in front of them. Now, they can see a wide range,” thus enhancing situational awareness during critical incidents.
Applications of these drones are diverse and cover a wide array of operations from locating missing children and individuals, investigating fraud, to managing hostage situations. The 101.5 report indicated that the use of drones allows for a rapid and comprehensive assessment of scenes, which is crucial in time-sensitive scenarios. Furthermore, the OCPD aims for transparency in their drone operations to foster public trust and dispel any concerns about privacy or misuse. Lt. Pancoast assured the community, emphasizing the public safety intent behind the use of this technology, “Showing the back scenes of it, there’s nothing hidden or nefarious that we’re doing with these drones. They’re there for public safety,” he said.
Looking ahead, the department plans to expand this program by training all officers to be FAA-certified pilots, thereby increasing the operational readiness and capabilities of the force.
National Trends and Broader Implications
The use of drones in law enforcement is not confined to Ocean City. Nationwide, police departments are increasingly turning to drones as a cost-effective alternative to helicopters and as a less intrusive means of surveillance. According to Forbes, drones can significantly aid in community policing efforts by enhancing capabilities in boat and plane accidents, crime scene investigations, and traffic management, as was explained in the 101.5 report. A notable advantage of drones is their discretion; unlike helicopters, drones operate quietly, which can be crucial in tracking suspects without alerting them.
An example of broader application is seen in Santa Monica, where drones are routinely deployed before officers arrive at a scene. As reported by NBC News, this preemptive use of drones helps in gathering essential visual information, reducing uncertainty and risk before human personnel are deployed.
Despite the operational benefits, the deployment of drones in public spaces raises privacy concerns. However, some departments have addressed these concerns by adopting a “drones as first responder” approach, ensuring that drones are used judiciously, focusing on specific incidents rather than general surveillance.
As more police departments across the country adopt drone technology, it will be imperative to maintain a balance between enhancing law enforcement capabilities and safeguarding civil liberties. The example set by OCPD in transparency and community engagement can serve as a model for other departments to emulate.
