Parke County Sheriff's Office adds drone program

The drone program was funded entirely by donations and grants from Big Inch, Futurex, Nucor, REMC and Parke County Community Foundation.

The Parke County Sheriff's Office has a new tool in its tool belt when it comes to fighting crime, as Sheriff Jason Frazier announced the addition of a drone program this week. 

The drone, which is a DJI Matrice M30T, will be used to help locate missing persons, wanted fugitives and assist in criminal investigations. 

"The drone program within the Parke County Sheriff's Office has come about to fill a gap within the growing field of law enforcement. Drone technology has significantly transformed various fields. The sheriff's department wanting to add a drone began as a response to a need for innovative solutions in public safety and surveillance," Frazier told The Parke County Post and GIANT fm News. 

Frazier said the drone will allow his department an opportunity to enhance its operational capabilities while also addressing challenges such as cost-effective responses to emergencies. 

"Over the years, advancements in drone technology made them increasingly affordable and easier to operate, leading Parke County Sheriff's Department to invest in an unmanned aerial vehicle as a tool for improving response efforts to missing persons, apprehending fleeing criminals, and assisting in criminal/accident investigations," Frazier said. 

Frazier said the drone will be beneficial in the event of a natural disaster or missing person search.

"Drones can quickly cover vast territories and provide real time aerial imagery, enabling deputies to identify locations that may be difficult to access on foot or by vehicle. Drones are equipped with thermal imaging cameras, such as the one the Sheriff's Office has acquired, can locate individuals in challenging terrains or low visibility conditions, which significantly enhances the efficiency of rescue operations," he said. 

The drone program was funded entirely by donations and grants from Big Inch, Futurex, Nucor, REMC and Parke County Community Foundation. Deputy Chris McCann oversaw the project and will be in charge of the program once he receives his certification from the Federal Aviation Administration, Frazier said. 

"This drone will play a vital role, such as improving functional capabilities, and the integration of drones into sheriff departments represents a strategic approach to enhancing safety in communities," Frazier said.