Myrtle Beach Police Deploys Drone Fleet for Enhanced Community Safety

Myrtle Beach police have leveraged drone technology, adding a new dimension to the law enforcement’s commitment to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. Initiating a new trend in community policing, the Myrtle Beach Police Department recently used its drone fleet for a successful operation – arresting two offenders and confiscating an illegal firearm.

Quicker Than Patrol Cars at Times

“We can often reach faster than our ground units as drones can swiftly fly over the area,” said Officer Alex Schaefer from the Myrtle Beach Police Department. The drone technology has been in use for over five years but has seen increased deployment lately. The police department asserted that their fleet of drones can perform diverse operations, from tracing suspects within the city to aiding in locating lost individuals at night.

Drones: A Game-Changer Tool

Emphasizing the strategic significance of drones, Officer Schaefer noted, “It’s a colossal tool. Their use enhances officer safety and public safety alike. By using drones, we can address situations from different and safer approaches.” The department employs two drone models, one smaller and faster to deploy while the other is larger, laced with advanced technology, but requires a lengthier setup time.

Fleet Features and Capabilities

The smaller drone serves as a rapid deployment unit that can be readied within minutes. On the other hand, the more sophisticated and larger drone holds the ability to be airborne for over ten hours. It even boasts night-vision capabilities and high-tech cameras that enable enhanced surveillance with up to 30 times zooming capability. “We can assist the community, ensure safety and simultaneously, provide real-time information to our ground units,” Officer Schaefer added.

Benefits Over Aviation Units

These remotely controlled air units were instrumental in recent police action where they helped in locating and disarming suspects carrying an illegal firearm. Moreover, drones have the advantage of reaching scenes before patrol cars, providing the benefits of an aviation unit but without the associated exorbitant costs. “We frequently reach the scene first and provide descriptions of the individuals involved. We offer real-time updates whether the situation has been contained or is still active,” explained Officer Schaefer.

Future Deployment Plans

The Myrtle Beach Police Department plans to continue and increase the utilization of drones. The larger drone is set to play a crucial role in maintaining security during the Carolina Country Music Fest scheduled in June.

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