The first police drone unit in the UK is set to soar in the skies above Dorset. 

Dorset Police were among the first police forces to launch the fully operational drone unit, which will assist policing across the county.

The drones are equipped with zoom cameras and thermal imaging which will help officers to locate missing people, provide crime scene photography and to respond quickly to major road traffic collisions.

Chief Superintendent Jim Nye, Commander for the Alliance Operations Department, explained drones are a ‘cost effective’ way to find information ‘quickly’ and ‘effectively.’

He said: “This is a historic step for the Alliance and policing in the UK; Drone capability is a cutting edge way to support operational policing across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset.

“This technology offers a highly cost effective approach in supporting our officers on the ground in operational policing.

“Drones will aid officers as part of missing person searches; crime scene photography, responding to major road traffic collisions, coastal and woodland searches and to combat wildlife crime.

“Drones can even help police track and monitor suspects during a firearm or terrorist incident, as it will allow officers to gain vital information, quickly, safely, and allow us to respond effectively at the scene."

Drones have been trialled by Dorset Police and Devon and Cornwall Police since November 2015, and have now been given the green light by the police forces.

There are currently six in operational use in Plymouth and Dorset and five officers across both police forces trained to use the drones. 
Over the next twelve months a further 40 officers will complete the training needed to operate the drones.

Drone Team Manager, Andy Hamilton, said: “It is fantastic to see both forces working together to lead the way in utilising new, cutting-edge technology. Having previously been a police officer for 30 years, I have seen how technology has changed and can help us become more efficient in what we are trying to achieve.

“In the past, any aerial photos or videos have been captured by the National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter, which is not always the best use of resources. Instead of always sending a helicopter on an hour’s flight to take a few photos of a crime scene, we can now use a drone to carry out the same task."