Redmond Police Department Wins National Award for Excellence in Drone as First Responder Program

The Redmond Police Department (RPD) has been honored with the Aerial Achievement Award for its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, announced on September 17 during Skydio’s Ascend Conference. Launched in April 2024, the DFR program enhances emergency response capabilities by deploying drones to provide live aerial visuals for 911 calls. These drones arrive on the scene before officers, offering real-time intelligence that supports faster and more accurate assessments, improving decision-making and potentially reducing unnecessary ground responses. Police Chief Darrell Lowe emphasized the program’s innovation and its impact on community safety, stating it reflects the team's commitment to public safety. This recognition comes amid a highly competitive selection process, underscoring the program's significant contributions to public safety.

The DFR program has been instrumental in preserving resources for higher-priority incidents. The Aerial Achievement Awards, presented annually by Skydio, celebrate outstanding drone initiatives across various sectors. RPD's achievement showcases the evolving role of technology in enhancing law enforcement operations.