Auburn Police use drone pilot program to prevent motorcycle theft

The Auburn Police Department is conducting a pilot program using Skydio X10 drones as first responders to provide real-time intelligence and arrive at scenes before officers. The department utilizes two drones and two automated docking stations as part of its Drone as First Responder (DFR) system.

In a recent incident involving a report of a person tampering with a motorcycle, the drone reached the scene ahead of officers. The aerial footage allowed police to track a suspect attempting to ride the motorcycle away, enabling officers to intervene before the theft was completed.

Data from the trial indicates that the drones have completed over 50 flights. In 47.1% of these responses, the drone arrived before officers, and 88.2% of the missions provided helpful intelligence. The trial is scheduled to run through October 9.