Ohio town buys $49K drone as privacy questions linger
WHITEHALL, Ohio (NewsNation): Whitehall, Ohio, has become the latest city to enhance its police department’s capabilities by investing in drone technology. The Whitehall Police Department recently announced the purchase of a $32,000 drone, funded by a federal grant, which will aid officers in various operations, including locating suspects, searching for missing persons, and surveilling large crime scenes. The drone is equipped with advanced features such as thermal imaging and high-resolution cameras, allowing officers to operate in both daylight and nighttime conditions.
Whitehall Police Chief Mike Crispen explained that the drone will offer significant advantages during dangerous situations, allowing officers to assess risk from a safe distance before engaging. This technology could help prevent potentially hazardous encounters, particularly during situations involving armed suspects or hazardous environmental conditions. Crispen noted that drones have been useful in law enforcement across the country, and Whitehall hopes to see similar success in enhancing officer safety and public protection.
The drone purchase is part of a broader strategy to integrate technology into police work, including the use of surveillance cameras and automated license plate readers. The department’s decision has been met with some mixed reactions. While many residents see the drones as a positive step toward more efficient policing, others have raised concerns about privacy and the potential for overreach.
To address these concerns, the Whitehall Police Department has emphasized its commitment to responsible drone use, adhering to guidelines set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and state laws. They also stated that the drone would primarily be used for emergency situations and would not be utilized for random surveillance.
With this new addition, Whitehall joins other police departments across the country that are increasingly turning to drones as a tool for modern law enforcement.
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