Anniston, AL. – The Anniston Police Department announced they have received a grant from Norfolk Southern in the amount of $15,000, which will enable them to purchase a new drone to assist officers. Currently, the department has two drones, but neither are all-weather and cannot be flown in inclement weather. The new drone, a DJI Matrice 4TD Enterprise, will allow officers to utilize the drone’s capabilities year-round. The drone has anti-icing propellers, rapid-change battery packs, a thermal imaging camera, and is expected to be delivered to the department by the end of April.
The Calhoun Journal spoke with Anniston Police Chief Clint Parris and Sergeant Doug White about the new drone acquisition. Chief Parris said, “We are extremely happy to be able to add this to our available tools.” He went on to explain that the usage of drones is wide and benefits the entire community. Sgt. White also said, “We have used our current drones to help locate missing children that have wandered off, and we have also used them to help track people that run from us.” Sgt. White explained that the Special Response Team (SRT) also utilizes the drones during situations where someone may be hiding inside a building to avoid being taken into custody. The drone enables officers to see into the building without the need to expose themselves physically, allowing them to determine the best approach moving forward.
Chief Parris also explained that he is working toward securing enough drones to ensure one is available on each shift. To fly the drone, officers are required to obtain an FAA Part 107 (drone pilot) license. Currently, the department has two qualified pilots and is expecting to put more officers through the training course so pilots will be available on all shifts.
Chief Parris also thanked Norfolk Southern for making this new all-weather drone a reality. He also thanked retired Sheriff Matthew Wade, who now works as an investigator with Norfolk Southern, for his assistance with the grant process.
