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: 

Saint Paul Police Department Policies:

Minnesota Laws and State Data:

Biennial Audit

SPPD

Flight Dashboard

View Docked Drone Program flight logs. This data is updated every 12 hours.

Docked Drone Program (DDP) Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How does this improve police response?

Answer: Speed and information. A drone can launch within seconds and reach most locations in its coverage area in minutes. That early aerial view allows officers to:

  • Confirm whether a suspect is present or has left.
  • Identify weapons or hazards.
  • Locate victims or injured persons.
  • Determine if additional resources are necessary.

In many cases, that early intelligence prevents unnecessary risk and helps ensure we send the right level of response.

Question: How does this impact officer and community safety?

Answer: It enhances safety for everyone. Better information reduces the likelihood of misjudgment and escalations. For example:

  • In a weapons call, the drone can determine whether a suspect is armed before officers approach.
  • In a burglary or alarm call, the drone can clear rooftops or backyards before entry.
  • In a large crowd event, it provides real-time awareness without placing officers in elevated risk positions.

Question: What about privacy concerns?

Answer: Privacy protections are foundational to the program. Key safeguards include:

  • Drones are deployed only for calls for service – not for general surveillance.
  • All flights are logged, documented, and auditable.
  • Video will be retained for seven days according to State Statute unless classified as evidence.
  • The drones do not have facial recognition or other biometric-matching technology.

Question: What types of calls would drones respond to?

Answer: In many of these situations, drones allow us to de-escalate, allocate resources more efficiently, and sometimes resolve incidents without requiring extensive physical searches. Examples include:

  • Weapons complaints.
  • Robbery or burglary in progress.
  • Missing persons.
  • Vehicle pursuit termination location searches.
  • Crash scenes.
  • Large-scale emergencies or natural disasters.

Question: How will success be measured?

Answer: This program will be data-driven. We will track measurable outcomes, including:

  • Time-to-arrival ahead of patrol units.
  • Reduction in officer risk exposure.
  • Clearance rates for certain crimes.
  • Enhanced community safety through de-escalation due to drone assistance.
  • Community feedback.

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