Annapolis Police, politicians say drone program would be for rapid response, not ‘constant surveillance’
The Annapolis City Council and Police Department are exploring the possibility of implementing a drone program to enhance rapid response capabilities in ongoing crime situations. The initiative is aimed at leveraging drones for improved tracking of suspects and overall safety of law enforcement operations. Discussions have been ongoing since June 2023, with city officials engaging with counterparts in Hagerstown, where a similar program has seen success in tracking and apprehending criminals through the use of unmanned aircraft.
While the idea is still in its early stages, Annapolis officials, including Police Chief Ed Jackson and Ward 5 Alderman Brooks Schandelmeier, have shown interest in adopting drones for enhanced law enforcement activities. Demonstrations of the technology have been conducted, showcasing the potential benefits of utilizing drones in various scenarios, such as locating suspects, monitoring events, and providing critical information to first responders in emergencies.
Despite the promising capabilities of drones, concerns around privacy and civil rights have been raised. Officials emphasize that any drone program would not entail constant surveillance but rather targeted and strategic deployment to aid in law enforcement efforts effectively. Input from residents will be sought, and policies will be established to address privacy issues and ensure transparency in the use of drones for public safety.
In their experience, the Hagerstown Police Department has outlined specific guidelines for drone operations, restricting their use to authorized law enforcement activities and ensuring that only trained officers operate the drones. Data collected by the drones is stored securely and may be released in compliance with public information laws. Annapolis authorities are considering similar safeguards to uphold legal and ethical standards in implementing a drone program.
As the discussion progresses, Annapolis officials are taking a cautious approach to ensure that the benefits of drones are maximized without infringing on individual rights. The ultimate goal is to leverage technology for swift and effective crime response while maintaining the trust and privacy of the community. While details are still being ironed out, the potential for drones to enhance public safety in Annapolis is being carefully considered for the benefit of all stakeholders.
