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Chair Carpenter asked whether there are variations in altitude between transit flight <br /> and active observation, whether the drones are deployed to destinations via a pilot <br /> or automatically through coordinates, and whether the cameras remain active <br /> throughout the duration of the flight. He requested clarification regarding the <br /> evidentiary validity of the captured footage and the reasoning behind the prohibition <br /> of drone use for code enforcement purposes. <br /> Commander Lopez clarified drone altitude is scenario-dependent, will navigate to <br /> locations autonomously, and stated that while the camera is active during flight, a <br /> remote operator takes control upon arrival to initiate recording when necessary. He <br /> clarified drone footage is admissible as evidence, similar to body-worn camera or <br /> other surveillance video, and drone use for code enforcement is prohibited as it <br /> would constitute a violation of the Fourth Amendment. <br /> Commissioner Vega asked whether the drone could be used by the Quality of Life <br /> Team (QOLT) to monitor or communicate with unhoused encampments and <br /> whether pilots are required to be sworn officers. <br /> Commander Lopez stated the current policy does not allow the drone to be used for <br /> enforcement purposes and limits drone use to investigative purposes only. <br /> Deputy Chief Andrade clarified first responder drones will be operated by sworn <br /> officers and other department professionals may use the drones to survey or <br /> photograph a scene, and stated drones may be used for an encampment if the call <br /> for service involves potential illegal activity. <br /> Commissioner Mejia expressed concern regarding the use of drones for <br /> surveillance of people who are unhoused, the misuse of surveillance enforcement, <br /> and the expansion of operational use to include responding to calls for service, and <br /> stated the current policy provides no usage on frequency guidelines, no minimum <br /> threshold for deployment and no cap on expansion. She recommended developing <br /> a protocol for conducting criminal investigations involving drones, and an annual <br /> usage report to the City Council and the Commission, and she asked whether there <br /> was any data to support to a reduction of use of force due to drones. <br /> Commander Lopez clarified there is currently no data that supports a reduction of <br /> use of force due to drones. <br /> Commissioner Said stated drones would allow for quick situational awareness <br /> which is beneficial and could allow officers to respond more precisely and possibly <br /> reduce use of force. She recommended review of the policy within the year to <br /> determine if changes are needed and suggested reviewing policies of other cities <br /> who have already implemented a drone program. <br /> POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION 5 MARCH 12, 2026 <br />