sUAS Drone Program

Mission:

The mission of the Woodland Police Department’s Drone Program is to utilize airborne support to support the Department’s overall mission of protecting lives and property. Drone operations will be conducted in a safe, responsible, and transparent manner to preserve the peace and increase the quality of life in Woodland.

Overview:

Small, remotely operated Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), also commonly referred to as drones, are an efficient and effective way of providing law enforcement critical information to respond to calls for service and emergency situations, or to conduct criminal investigations. Some examples include; providing an overhead view of an area or incident for ground personnel, safely clearing the interior of buildings, providing detailed documentation of crime and accident scenes, and searching for lost or missing persons.

History:

In the fall of 2021, WPD formed the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Committee to study the use of the technology in its public safety operations. UAS Committee members met regularly to study best practices, policies, and procedures regarding the use of UAS technology in law enforcement. A special focus of the team’s research was an effort to address concerns about public trust, civil liberties, and the public’s right to privacy during the operation of WPD UAS systems.

Prior to implementing its UAS Program, WPD discussed its plan for UAS operations in city council meetings, in public forums, with the Chief’s Advisory Board, with the Youth Police Advisory Committee, and in community meetings. It is important to note that, out of respect for civil liberties and personal privacy, WPD’s UAS policy specifically prohibits the use of UAS systems for general surveillance or general patrol operations. After extensive planning and research, WPD activated its UAS Program in the fall of 2022 to support tactical operations by WPD first responders.

sUAS Drone Program

Mission:

Overview:

History:

Use:

Here to Help

Important Links

Site Links