Dutchess County is launching a new Drone as First Responder program to enhance public safety and reduce response times. Sheriff Kirk Imperati announced the initiative, which will allow drones to be deployed immediately while a call is being processed. The program aims to provide real-time intelligence to law enforcement, aiding in more informed decision-making as officers head to crime scenes.

The drones will be integrated into the Dutchess County Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC), which serves as a hub for monitoring video feeds and other technologies. Sheriff Imperati emphasized the value of drones, stating they are "a tremendous asset that we can utilize as a tool for helping us protect the nearly 300,000 residents of Dutchess County" according to Mid-Hudson News. The drones have a five-mile radius and can provide live feeds to patrol units on the ground.

The RTCC, a collaborative effort with the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office, has received financial support from County Executive Sue Serino and the County Legislature. The center will merge data from various sources, including live video and audio detection, to enhance situational awareness and improve coordination among law enforcement agencies. County Executive Serino described the RTCC as a "game-changer for speed of response and police safety."

In a recent operation, the Sheriff's Office used drones to assist in the arrest of a suspect in the Town of North East. The operation demonstrated the effectiveness of drones in providing real-time aerial views and assisting patrol units. Despite causing some traffic disruptions, the Sheriff's Office assured the public that there was no threat to safety.

The program represents a significant step forward in using technology to enhance public safety and crime response efficiency in Dutchess County.

Denise Plante