By Rita Cook, Metro News
DESOTO, Texas — The City of DeSoto Police Department is the first department in the Best Southwest area to introduce first responder drones, according to Costa. While DeSoto and other local cities have used drones for police work, the first responder drone from Paladin Drones is the first of its kind in the region.
Lieutenant R. Heath Penwarden, Support Service Commander SRRG-SRT, explained that Paladin Drones are used to “enhance its small unmanned aerial system (sUAS) operations with the DJI 30T.” The DJI 30T is a highly capable sUAS designed to operate in adverse weather conditions, such as rain and strong winds. Its thermal imaging capability allows for a range of applications, such as locating missing persons, tracking fleeing suspects, and assisting the Fire Department during structure fires. This technology elevates situational awareness and operational efficiency for public safety.
DeSoto’s robust drone program began in 2017, funded through seizure funds. The total cost of the sUAS program, including hardware, software, extended modules like cellular signal devices, unlimited battery replacements, drone replacement warranties, FAA waiver support, and a week-long training program, is $49,000.
Read the full story here: DeSoto PD first agency to launch first responder drones in Best Southwest
