A local police agency is taking to the skies to solve crimes and protect the public.
The Ada County Sheriff’s Office says nine deputies have spent months, training to operate and fly drones.
KBOI 2-TV reports deputy drone pilots already used the technology in official capacity in late September, while investigating the home invasion shooting and house fire in Meridian.
Officials say the drones will be used during public safety emergencies, like potential hostage or barricaded subject calls.
Drones may also be used to get aerial photos from vehicle crashes and crime scenes.
The Ada County Sheriff’s Office wants to assure the public that the drones will only be used for limited purposes, and will not violate privacy rights.
For longer-term investigations, the rules are very specific and very limited. Idaho Code specifically requires law enforcement to obtain a search warrant from a judge before unmanned aircraft can be used to conduct surveillance on any person or property.
