The Cheektowaga Police Department’s Drone Unit utilizes Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, to enhance public safety and support officers in the field. These state-of-the-art tools allow our department to see from the sky what can’t always be seen from the ground —  helping improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety during investigations and critical incidents. 

Our certified drone pilots are specially trained and licensed under FAA regulations to operate in a variety of situations. Drones are equipped with high-definition and thermal imaging cameras, allowing them to assist in both day and night operations.

HOW OUR DRONES ARE USED

• Search and Rescue: Quickly cover large or dense areas to locate missing or vulnerable individuals in distress. 
• Suspect Searches: Provide a safe and effective way to search for suspects who have fled on foot or into difficult or dense terrain. 
• Crime Scene and Accident Documentation:  Aerial photos and video help investigators accurately document and map scenes for later analysis.
• Disaster Response: Assess storm damage, flooding, fires, or other emergencies quickly and safely from above. 
• Tactical Support: Assist officers with aerial perspectives during critical incidents or active investigations, giving a broader view without placing officers in harm’s way. 
• Public Events: Monitor large gatherings from above to help ensure public safety. 
• Community Engagement: Demonstrate drone capabilities at community events, fostering transparency and building public trust in how technology supports modern policing. 

 Drones allow the department to work smarter and safer. They improve situational awareness, reduce risk to officers, and enhance the effectiveness of searches and investigations. 

The Cheektowaga Police Drone Unit consists of ten Part 107 Licensed Pilots as a collateral duty. It is overseen by a Lieutenant and Sergeant who act as the program coordinators.