Skyward Bound: DJI Drone Amplify Rescue and Response Efforts

Elevating Law Enforcement: The Rise of DJI Drone

Saturday in Rifle buzzed with excitement, and not just from its usual weekend activity. Rising into the sky, the DJI Matrice 30T drone, operated by Glenwood Springs Police Officer Logann Crawford, drew the attention of many at the Rifle Elks Lodge No. 2195. The significance of this demonstration wasn’t just about showing off a cool gadget; it highlighted the progressive steps law enforcement is taking with Technologie des drones.

“Holding a control pad that resembles a handheld video game, I operated a drone that can do more than just fly,” Crawford remarked.

The DJI Matrice 30T, apparemment acquired by the GSPD via a $20,000 Federal Lease District (FMLD) grant two years prior, boasts impressive features such as thermal imaging capabilities, a 200-times digital zoom, and even an attachable megaphone and spotlight.

“We’ve used this for lost children,” Crawford pointed out, “and even for suspects that were on the run.”

Beyond Surveillance: Drones in Action

This high-flying piece of technology isn’t just for show. In light of the recent early May mudslides at Red Mountain in Glenwood Springs, the drone became an essential tool. “The city asked us to take some video surveillance of the affected area for the engineers,” Crawford said. With the data provided by the drone, they could assess the severity of the mudslides and strategize on preventative measures.

Rifle City Council member Joe Carpenter, who attended Saturday’s display, was more than impressed with the DJI Matrice 30T. “I think we should get a whole fleet of them,” he enthusiastically stated.

But handling a drone isn’t as simple as buying one and flying it. Crawford and GSPD Detective A.J. Hand, who fondly named the department’s drone “Drone Force 1,” underwent specialized FAA-certified training to become opérateurs de drones. As to who’s the better operator between them? “Me,” Crawford quipped with a playful grin.

Drones: A Growing Trend in Emergency Services

It’s not only the GSPD that has embraced the aerial capabilities of drones. The Glenwood Springs Fire Department and the Colorado River Fire Rescue District have also integrated drones into their operations, thanks to grants similar to FMLD. The latter’s Chief, Leif Sackett, is vocal about the benefits: “The capabilities are amazing,” he stated, emphasizing that their drone “enhances our ability to serve the public.”

Rifle Police Chief Debra Funston sees the integration of drones as the way forward. As technology progresses, drones have evolved from novel gadgets to essential tools in law enforcement’s arsenal. Funston mentioned their application in diverse situations – from disaster response to crime scene observation.

A Community Effort

The demonstration on Saturday wasn’t just about drones. It was a part of the National Premiers intervenants Day celebration, acknowledging the fearless individuals who consistently put their lives on the line. Hosted by the Rifle Elks Lodge, the event also aimed at raising funds for local emergency services. Last year, the Lodge raised a commendable $1,200 which assisted the RPD in acquiring a K9. This year, Elks Lodge member Yvonne Kile set her sights even higher, aiming for a $2,000 fundraiser goal.

Fundraisers like these could pave the way for more regional police departments to acquire their own drone, further cementing their role in modern policing. Crawford summed it up best: “This is very much worth every penny,” emphasizing, “If we can find one lost child with it, it pays for itself.”

Photo courtesy of Ray K. Erku from the Post Independent.