Portland Police Bureau Seeks to Expand Drone Program for Enhanced Public Safety

The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) is requesting approval from the Portland City Council to expand its drone program, aiming to enhance public safety and operational efficiency across all precincts and patrol shifts, according to KOIN.

$98,000 Investment for Equipment and Training

PPB plans to ask the City Council for $98,000 to purchase new equipment and provide training. This investment will allow the bureau to extend its “unmanned aerial system” program throughout the city, potentially reducing investigative costs and freeing up officers for other duties.

Drones as a Tool for Community Impact Reduction

“The Police Bureau understands that large or active crime scenes can have a devastating effect on the community,” states PPB’s request. The bureau believes that expanding drone use could help mitigate the impact of police activities on communities, which can be “invasive and anxiety-inducing.”

Current Drone Usage and Oversight

PPB’s drone activity is tracked and published monthly on the city’s website. The data shows that drones are most commonly used for “exigent” responses, traffic collisions, and executing search warrants. City code defines “exigent circumstances” as situations requiring swift police action to prevent danger to life, imminent destruction of evidence, or a suspect’s escape.

Funding and Approval Process

The proposed expansion will be funded through asset forfeiture funds from PPB’s Special Revenue fund. As drones are considered controlled equipment under city code, the purchase requires council approval. The Portland City Council is scheduled to consider the proposed ordinance during its meeting on August 27.

DroneXL’s Take

The expansion of police drone programs is a growing trend across the United States, reflecting the increasing recognition of drones as valuable tools for law enforcement. This move by the Portland Police Bureau aligns with recent developments in other cities where drones have proven effective in enhancing public safety and operational efficiency.

As we’ve seen in recent articles on DroneXL, such as the use of drones in search and rescue operations and traffic accident investigations, these unmanned aerial systems can significantly improve response times and situational awareness for first responders. However, it’s crucial for police departments to maintain transparency and adhere to privacy regulations to ensure public trust in these programs.

What are your thoughts on the Portland Police Bureau’s plan to expand its drone program? Share your opinion in the comments section below.

Photo courtesy of the Portland Police Bureau and Portland City Council.