A DFR program features a fleet of camera-equipped drones, which can range from just a couple to dozens or more. These are deployed from a launch pad in response to 911 calls and other calls for service, sometimes operated by a drone pilot or, increasingly, autonomously directed to the call location. The appeal is the promise of increased "situational awareness" for officers headed to a call.
On Tuesday, the city's leaders voted down a $2 million contract with Flock Safety, the company that operates Oakland's existing camera systems, after hundreds rallied against the threat of immigration authorities and other federal law enforcement spying on residents, bypassing the city's sanctuary policies. The issue has grown so contentious that two members of the local Privacy Advisory Commission resigned last week - and one subsequently filed a lawsuit against the Oakland Police Department.
Berkeley could soon start planning how to equip the Berkeley Police Department and other first responders with drones to track fleeing suspects, provide reconnaissance during standoffs and gain a bird's-eye view of disasters like earthquakes and fires, among other uses. A proposal from Councilmember Terry Taplin would task the City Manager's Office with developing an acquisition report and use policy for drones.
