The New York City Police Department has launched a “Drone as First Responder” (DFR) programme. The NYPD is now employing drones alongside first responders. The DFR programme is now operational in five commands in three boroughs, and marks an expansion of the NYPD’s current unmanned aircraft systems initiative. 

Located at the 67th, 71st, and 75th police precincts in Brooklyn; the 48th Police Precinct in the Bronx; and the Central Park Precinct in Manhattan, the 10 newest drones — two per command — will be deployed remotely and fly autonomously to select priority public safety calls. This includes searches for missing people, alerts from the ShotSpotter gunshot detection system, incidents of robberies and grand larcenies, and other crimes in progress as needed.

The rapid deployment of DFR drones based at station houses supplements the NYPD’s in-person patrol response to 911 calls by supplying high-definition audio and video that is accessible, in real time, on officers and supervisors’ department-issued smartphones. 

“New York City is flying into the future as we keep New Yorkers safe,” said Mayor Adams. “While the ‘Drone as First Responder’ programme is what precision policing in the 21st century looks like, drone potential is really just taking off. We are leveraging the latest technology to enhance the NYPD’s emergency-response capabilities, remotely sending drones to the exact longitude and latitude of where an emergency call comes and sometimes in as little as a minute. These drones will mean more efficient policing and will help increase the safety of our responding NYPD officers and New Yorkers.”   

“When New Yorkers need help, our first responders are always there as quickly as possible to ensure their safety,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker. “This programme adds a powerful tool to our toolkit, enabling police to respond faster and with more accurate information. By using technology to improve efficiency and services, we’re helping those who protect us do their jobs better when every second counts and we’re making our communities even more safe.” 

“We are at the forefront of these exciting innovations today, and we must always keep seeking out the benefits of new and improving technology,” said NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “Our DFR programme is part of this evolution. It enables our highly trained officers to be even more responsive to the people we serve, and to carry out the NYPD’s critical work in ways that are increasingly effective, efficient, and safe for everyone.”