Police Drone Programs Take Flight Across the US, Raising Privacy Concerns

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) reports that “drone as first responder” (DFR) programs are rapidly gaining popularity among law enforcement agencies across the United States. These programs involve deploying camera-equipped drones to 911 call locations before officers arrive, ostensibly to provide “situational awareness.”

The Rise of DFR Programs

Since the Chula Vista Police Department launched the first DFR program in 2018, dozens of police departments have followed suit. The EFF’s Atlas of Surveillance has identified approximately 1,500 police departments with drone programs, with a growing number adopting the DFR model.

Privacy Concerns and Surveillance Overreach

While proponents argue that DFR programs enhance officer safety and preparedness, critics raise significant privacy concerns. The EFF warns that these programs could lead to over-surveillance of neighborhoods with higher 911 call volumes and collect information on individuals unrelated to the incident at hand.

“In practice, law enforcement’s desire to get ‘a view of the scene’ becomes a justification for over-surveilling neighborhoods that produce more 911 calls and for collecting information on anyone who happens to be in the drone’s path,” the EFF states.

Technological Capabilities and Mission Creep

Police Drones can be equipped with various surveillance technologies, including thermal imaging, license plate readers, and facial recognition software. This has led to concerns about mission creep, with tools initially justified for violent crime response being used for low-level infractions or policing homelessness.

Transparency and Accountability

The EFF emphasizes the need for transparency in drone acquisition and usage. A recent Wired investigation into Chula Vista’s program found that roughly one in 10 drone flights lacked a stated purpose, and each average flight exposed nearly 5,000 city residents to enhanced surveillance.

Legal Landscape

While some states require warrants for drone surveillance in private areas, only Alaska, California, Hawaii, and Vermont have court rulings protecting residents’ constitutional rights against warrantless aerial surveillance. The EFF advocates for clear policies on drone deployment, footage collection, retention, and sharing.

DroneXL’s Take

The rapid adoption of DFR programs by police departments across the US represents a significant shift in law enforcement tactics. While drones offer potential benefits for public safety, the concerns raised by the EFF highlight the need for careful consideration of privacy implications and robust oversight mechanisms.

As Drone Technology continues to advance, it’s crucial for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and the public to engage in an open dialogue about the appropriate use of these tools. Striking a balance between public safety and individual privacy rights will be essential as we navigate this new era of aerial policing.