Police drone pilots support weekend safety patrols

Our eyes in the sky have been busy over recent weekends.

Drone pilots have been supporting officers with weekend night-time operations in and around Durham City.

Operating from carefully selected rooftop landing sites in the city centre and supported by additional drone pilots in a mobile police vehicle, the team can launch a drone in under a minute and reach incidents within 60 to 90 seconds, providing vital aerial support to officers on the ground.

Alongside responding to incidents, our drones have been proactively patrolling the city to help keep people safe and prevent and detect crime and disorder.

During the first weekend, drone pilots spotted an intoxicated man close to the river who appeared to lose his footing and nearly fall into the water several times. They immediately alerted officers, who helped him to safety.

The team has also supported searches for missing people, enabling officers to clear large areas quickly and focus on other tasks. They have also responded to reports of antisocial behaviour and disorder.

Equipped with thermal imaging cameras and powerful searchlights, our drones help officers locate people and assess incidents in darkness. Images and video captured by the drones are streamed live directly to our control room and can also be viewed by officers on the ground, providing them with real-time information and evidence of offences.

These patrols will continue in the run-up to Christmas, providing additional support to officers on the ground and helping to keep Durham City safe during the busy festive period.