WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — A new program is letting law enforcement get new insight on emergency calls before first responders even arrive.
Deputy J. Lasley is a patrol deputy and drone pilot for Forsyth County Sheriff Department, who flies over the Village of Clemmons, responding to emergency calls.
“It’s another way of using new technology to be able to help people,” Lasley said.
It’s one of the many reasons why Lasley says he’s passionate about his job.
“I’ve always enjoyed helping others and helping people, and this was a good way to do it. It’s a very active job and no two days are the same and I love what I do,” Lasley said.
It’s a part of a new program called Drone First Repsonders that the sheriff’s office started at the beginning of October.
The job is half remote, half in-person. Lasley flies the drone from the downtown sheriff's office and a colleague in the field with the drone following FAA regulations for safe flight.
“Pretty much a call comes through dispatch. We determine where it is. We then, between myself and the pilot in Clemmons, allow each other control of the drone. So with the DFR program the drone will autonomously fly there on its own and once it gets there, I can move it around as needed based on the call,” Lasley said.
The drone flies within a two-mile radius in Clemmons, which is the pilot location for the program. The drone provides insight for deputies answering calls.
“So, we see things before a deputy even gets there. That’ll enhance their response, change the way they respond, if they need to respond faster, slower, it gives them a good idea of what they are walking into,” Lasley said.
Lasley joined the drone team six months ago and says this innovative program helps both officers and the community.
“It’s not a program where we’re going around to people’s houses and spying. It’s one where we are flying to calls, focusing on call location and once that is done, flying right back,” Lasley said.
The program has already logged more than 60 calls since its start in October.