Public Safety Technology

The Saint Paul Police Department utilizes a variety of camera devices and systems as a way to deter crime, enhance both public and officer safety, and provide transparency. That includes Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV), trailer cameras, body-worn cameras, in-car cameras, Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR or LPR), and Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) – commonly known as drones.

The Docked Drone Program (DDP) is an evolution of the Saint Paul Police Department’s Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Program, aimed at enhancing the safety of officers and our community. The DDP deploys a remotely piloted aircraft after receiving a high priority 911 call. The drone will be able to arrive on scene in minutes, often before officers can arrive, providing real-time situational awareness. The goal is simple: Improve safety, reduce response times, and make better-informed decisions before officers arrive on scene.

More Information: 

• Public Safety Technology One-Pager
• Docked Drone Program (DDP) One-Pager
• Saint Paul Community Connect

Saint Paul Police Department Policies:

• Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS)
• Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)
• Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR or LPR)
• Body-Worn Camera (BWC)
• In-Car Camera (ICC)

Minnesota Laws and State Data:

• Minnesota State Statue (Section 626.19) on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
• Minnesota State Statute on Data Practices (Chapter 13)
• Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Data