Sacramento Police adds DJI Drones to Military Equipment

Last month, the Sacramento Police Department provided insights into the military gear they possess, including DJI drones, and the new equipment they're eyeing. This disclosure follows Assembly Bill 481, a law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in September 2021, directing the department to report its military inventory transparently.

Currently, the department owns military gear worth $4.5 million. Their wish list for the upcoming year? An additional $360,000, which includes 18 M4-89 rifles, specially for their SWAT team. But they won't just get it without oversight. The new law means they need a nod from the City Council before any military acquisition.

Wanting to involve the community in these decisions, the Sacramento Community Police Review Commission held meetings in July, inviting public opinions. The police department also launched an anonymous survey in five languages, allowing locals to share their thoughts until the end of this week. Check it out here: bit.ly/sacpd-military-feedback-2023.

When it comes to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), here's what the department reportedly wishes to add in terms of DJI drones:

• DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise drones (3 units): $18,900, expected to last 3-5 years.
• DJI Avata drone (1 unit): $1,428, with a 3-5 year lifespan.
• DJI Mavic 3 Cine Premium Combo drone (1 unit): $4,999, lasting 3-5 years.

These potential new DJI drones would add to the already significant number owned by the department.

As for what's already in their arsenal? Think along the lines of high-caliber rifles (in the hundreds), a good number of DJI drones, and a fleet of armored vehicles. For those keen on deep diving, a comprehensive 200-page report breaks down each item, along with guidelines for its usage, all in accordance with AB 481.

Illustration courtesy of The Sacramento Bee