Oceanside Police Department launches drone response program

OCEANSIDE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — The Oceanside Police Department will be using drones to respond to calls for service.

The Drone as First Responder pilot program, which launched Monday, involves the drone being dispatched to calls for service in the downtown area such as criminal activity, missing people, or other emergency incidents, according to law enforcement.

Responding officers and the department’s Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) will then be able to use the live video feed from the drone in its decision-making.

The Oceanside Police Department aims to accomplish the following with the drone program:

• Faster Response Times: The drone can reach call locations within approximately one minute, significantly faster than traditional ground units.
• Improved Situational Awareness: Live aerial video helps first responders better understand scenes before arriving, aiding in decision-making and de-escalation.
• Efficient Resource Use: In similar programs across the country, drones have helped resolve a significant portion of calls without the need to dispatch ground officers.
• Privacy Safeguards: The program includes strict policies to govern when drones are launched, how footage is used, and how long data is retained. Flights prioritize public safety and are conducted with care to avoid unnecessary surveillance of private property.

The pilot program will last for 13 months.