CAMBRIDGE, Md. - Drones are the newest tool being used by the Cambridge Police Department, providing officers with eyes in the sky for high-risk situations.
"It's a safety tool not only for the officers but also the citizens," said Cambridge Police Chief Justin Todd.
The department has certified five officers to operate two drones — one designed for outdoor use and another for indoor scenarios.
“There’s things like canine apprehensions, fleeing suspects, large crowds, things for dirt bikes. You know, we have issues with dirt bikes in our city. We’re going to make that a big issue [to tackle],” Todd said. “If you’re out on our city streets and you’re a safety hazard and a safety issue, then we’re going to put the drone up in the air, and we’re going to find out where you stopped that dirt bike.”
For barricade situations, the department’s new indoor drone can be deployed. It’s equipped with infrared technology and designed for tight or dangerous spaces.
“It’s a tactical drone. It can cut through glass. It can make its way into a residence. It can map out a residence. And therefore, you know, we have average two or three barricade situations a year,” Todd said.
If a drone is damaged or knocked out of the air, Todd said the manufacturer may provide a replacement.
The department also plans to use the drones during community events.
“Our crime was down almost 15% as a whole last year. If we want to keep it on a downward trend, we’re going to have to keep up to date with this type of technology,” Todd said.
Some residents support the new approach to policing.
“It can move and get places where they can’t,” said Cambridge resident Eugene Mahammad.
While the department can begin using the indoor drone immediately, it is still waiting for the outdoor drone to arrive.