Bensalem police deploy drone-first program to speed emergency response

BENSALEM, Pa. (WPVI) -- Bensalem police have launched a "drone as first responder" program, making the department one of the few in the Delaware Valley to use the technology to reach emergencies before officers and other first responders.

With the push of a button, officers can deploy a drone from outside the department and send it flying at 45 mph to a scene, often arriving within minutes.

"This is not to replace police officers. This is basically to supplement what they do, and we can get on scene and get eyes on a situation before the officers get there," Sgt. Matthew Malcolm said.

The department currently operates two drones positioned in different locations, with 22 trained pilots working out of its real-time crime center. Malcolm said the system allows officers and commanders to monitor incidents as they unfold.

"We have the ability to livestream to commanders, other officers on the scene, or on their way to the job," he said.

Police said the aircraft responds to a range of 911 calls, including accidents, fires, shootings and other crimes. The drones are also equipped with thermal imaging, which officers use to locate missing people or suspects.

"We use the thermal imaging a lot of the time, especially at night when we're looking for subjects," Sgt. Glenn Vandegrift said.

Video provided by the department showed a drone tracking a suspect who fled after a theft. Vandegrift said the technology helps determine when a large emergency response is unnecessary.

"We have the ability to then slow down all the emergency equipment so they don't have to travel lights and sirens, so they don't have to go through red lights, and to keep our community and people on the roadway safer," he said.

Vandegrift said the department's Part 91 Waiver allows drones to fly anywhere in the township without officers maintaining visual contact. He emphasized that the drones will not be used for routine surveillance.

"We would not invade privacy. We do not go over homes. We do not look in people's windows. This is just a drone that goes out to the scene first," he said.

The department purchased the drones using state funding and plans to add another to its fleet this summer.

Philadelphia and Camden police also use the program.