Eyes in the Sky: How Bensalem Police Use Drones to Nab Shoplifters

In Bensalem Township, Pennsylvania, Police are pioneering the use of DJI Drone Technology to combat a rising wave of retail thefts. This high-tech tactic has not only boosted the department’s efficiency in arresting suspects but also significantly increased their clearance rates for such crimes, reports 6 ABC Philadelphia.

Drones on Duty

The Bensalem Police Department has recently launched the Bensalem Secure Task Force, a new initiative featuring a small fleet of drones. These drones are swiftly deployed following reports of retail theft and have been instrumental in tracking down suspects. Detective Glenn Vandegrift highlighted the speed and efficiency of these drones, which can arrive on scene within two minutes, providing aerial footage that helps pinpoint suspects.

A Technological Advantage

The use of drones has transformed how the police respond to thefts, allowing them to cover more ground quickly and monitor suspects until officers can make an arrest. For instance, a recent incident involved a stolen bicycle; the drone provided real-time updates on the suspect’s location to the ground officers, leading to a swift arrest less than a mile from the crime scene.

Impressive Results

The implementation of drone technology has led to a remarkable 62% clearance rate for retail thefts in the township, a figure significantly higher than the national average. Last year alone, nearly 900 retail theft incidents were reported, doubling the number from 2019. This stark increase underscores the necessity and effectiveness of the drone program.

Future Prospects and Beyond

Detective Vandegrift is optimistic that the success of the Bensalem Secure Task Force will set a precedent for other police departments across the country, encouraging them to adopt similar measures. He stresses that the task force is committed to combating theft aggressively, regardless of the value of the stolen goods.

The proactive use of drones by the Bensalem Police Department not only enhances their ability to apprehend suspects but also acts as a deterrent to potential criminals. This initiative, in collaboration with local officials and the Bucks County District Attorney’s office, represents a significant step forward in law enforcement tactics, showing that innovation can lead to safer communities.

Photos courtesy of 6 ABC Philadelphia / Bensalem Police Department