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Deputy Chief Andrade explained different scenarios relating to termination point of <br />pursuits regarding use of force when needed. <br />Commissioner Gawronski asked whether SAPD has their own helicopter to use <br />during pursuits, where these helicopters are held, and how many are available. <br />Deputy Chief Andrade stated SAPD obtains police helicopter services from the <br />Orange County Sheriff's Department, which operates four helicopters, and <br />explained the factors considered when deploying helicopters during pursuits. <br />Commander Weber stated helicopters are held at John Wayne Airport and <br />explained the process behind using air support during pursuits. <br />Vice Chair Castillo Laughton asked whether SAPD collaborates with news station <br />helicopters during pursuits and how the Department coordinates with other <br />agencies if no helicopters are available, and requested data on the use of force <br />employed to end pursuits over the past five years. <br />Commander Weber confirmed SAPD does not collaborate with news agencies <br />during pursuits. <br />Deputy Chief Andrade stated use of force to end pursuits is not common. <br />Chair Carpenter asked regarding the potential effects of not pursuing individuals <br />and requested more information on policies regarding pursuits involving vehicles <br />with children. <br />Commander Weber explained the necessity behind pursuits and the discretionary <br />factors dealing with children within vehicles during pursuits. <br />Vice Chair Castillo Laughton inquired regarding drone use during pursuits and how <br />many drones are to be obtained for the department. <br />Deputy Chief Andrade explained the possible instances drone use could be <br />beneficial and stated the department is looking into how many drones are to be <br />obtained. <br />Commissioner Perea requested clarification regarding the purchase of drones in <br />the military budget proposal. <br />Deputy City Manager Sylvia Vazquez confirmed there has not been any budget <br />approval or proposal presented to City Council regarding drone policies, <br />procedures, and implementations. <br />Commissioner Vega asked whether a warning system could be sent to those within <br />the area of a high-speed pursuit taking place. <br />Deputy Chief Andrade explained sending alerts during pursuits would be difficult <br />due to high-speed pursuits happening so quickly. <br />POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 OCTOBER 9, 2025 <br />