The Montgomery County Police Department has launched its Drone as First Responder (DFR) Pilot Program to provide air support to 911 or police generated calls for service in a safe, responsible, and transparent manner. The DFR program will:
- Improve police response times.
- Allow MCPD to be more efficient with police resources.
- Provide real time information to ground officers to allow for better decision making.
- Assist with de-escalation of incidents to enhance safety for both officers and our community.
- Assist with locating and apprehending criminal suspects.
Overview: The DFR program consists of prepositioning an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) on top of a building within an operational area. When a 911 or police generated call for service occurs, the UAS will launch and fly to the scene of the call. If ground officers are still needed to respond, the UAS will stay over the scene until the call is stabilized at which time the UAS will return to the launch/landing location.
There are times when the DFR may be able to discontinue a ground officer response to a call which would allow officers to divert to other emergency calls or law enforcement activities. The DFR program will be used only to respond to 911 or police generated calls for service and will NOT be patrolling an area or proactively deployed for other reasons such as surveillance. Should you have questions on the DFR program, please reach out to [email protected] or 240-773-6500.
Featured photo courtesy of Montgomery County Government
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you’re an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
