The Bay County Sheriff’s Department launched a drone program in May, and officials said they are already looking to expand.
The department has two drones that can provide aerial views in a number of situations, including searches for missing people, assessing traffic accidents, and helping in search and rescue operations.
Bay county Sheriff Troy Cunningham said the drones will accelerate response time.
“We just feel we can cover a lot more area quicker and try to locate missing elderly, missing kids, or anyone who is in danger.”
Cunningham said he plans to grow the program. He said they have one officer trained as a pilot and another officer in training.
Cunningham said he also plans to use grant funding to buy a new drone with infrared capabilities.