The SEMLEC Drone Unit provides rapid aerial support during searches, critical incidents, and major investigations. As a regional mutual-aid resource, the unit enhances local police operations by supplying safe, real-time overhead views to improve decision-making and responder safety.
The mission of the Drone Unit is to strengthen public and officer safety by deploying unmanned aerial systems (UAS) responsibly and efficiently. The unit supports missing-person searches, critical operations, and incident documentation while complying with FAA regulations and SEMLEC policies.
Capabilities
Staffed by FAA-certified remote pilots, the unit uses UAS equipped with high-resolution, thermal, and low-light cameras to:
- Locate missing or endangered persons
- Provide overwatch for high-risk operations
- Document major crime and crash scenes
- Assess disaster or storm damage
- Enhance perimeter security and situational awareness
These tools allow rapid coverage of large or difficult areas, giving commanders accurate information to guide safe responses.
Community Values
The Drone Unit prioritizes constitutional rights, privacy, and civil liberties. All missions are justified, documented, and conducted with oversight, emphasizing professionalism, appropriate transparency, and responsible data management to maintain public trust.
Activation
A SEMLEC member police chief may request Drone Unit assistance for qualifying incidents. Upon activation, the Control Chief assigns pilots and equipment and coordinates with the requesting incident commander to integrate aerial support into the overall response. The unit ensures all member communities—large or small—can access advanced UAS capabilities when needed.