The New Orleans Police Department says it has the federal go-ahead to start flying drones.
"The Department of Justice and the Office of the Consent Decree Monitor have given their approval to NOPD policy regarding use of small unmanned aircraft systems," the department released.
This comes after about a year of development, discussion and public input.
“We appreciate everyone involved in this process to help us craft an all-encompassing policy regarding NOPD’s use of drones,” NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said. “As we’ve stated previously, the NOPD fully respects the privacy rights of all residents and visitors to New Orleans and took this into consideration when crafting this policy."
The chief says the technology will only be deployed in specific scenarios and will serve as a more efficient, cost-effective, and safer alternative to using humans to do the same work.
"Any time the NOPD elects to use the drone system, the use will be publicized to media."
The news release adds that NOPD has no plans to use drone systems during the current Mardi Gras season, unless a catastrophic event should occur.
