Union, W.Va. (WVDN) – The Monroe County Commission is proud to announce the acquisition of two state-of-the-art drones for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, a transformative investment in public safety and community welfare. Funded entirely by Opioid Settlement Funds, not taxpayer dollars, these drones—a compact DJI model for confined spaces and a larger, multi-functional unit with advanced technology—will significantly enhance the Sheriff’s Office’s ability to conduct search and rescue operations, perform drug reconnaissance, respond to active shooter incidents, and more. This acquisition underscores Monroe County’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to protect citizens and ensure deputy safety, marking another milestone in the county’s forward-thinking approach to public safety.
The first drone, a small DJI model, is designed for agility and precision in confined environments, making it an invaluable tool for high-risk situations. Equipped with high-definition cameras and maneuverability, it can navigate tight spaces such as house trailers, school hallways, or commercial buildings. For example, in a scenario involving an armed suspect barricaded in a mobile home, deputies can deploy the DJI drone to safely scout the interior, identifying the suspect’s location without risking officer safety. Similarly, in an active shooter situation at a school, the drone can provide real-time visuals of hallways and classrooms, enabling deputies to assess threats and coordinate responses with minimal exposure to danger. This capability reduces the need for direct confrontation, enhancing safety for both deputies and civilians.
The second drone, a larger and more versatile unit, is equipped with advanced features, including infrared cameras, high-definition cameras, a powerful floodlight, and a payload delivery system. Its infrared cameras can detect heat signatures, making it ideal for nighttime search and rescue missions. For instance, if a hiker is lost in the rugged terrain of Moncove Lake State Park, the drone can locate their heat signature in dense forests, guiding rescuers to their position. The high-definition cameras provide detailed imagery for drug reconnaissance, allowing deputies to monitor remote areas for illegal opioid trafficking without alerting suspects. The floodlight can illuminate crime scenes, such as a nighttime drug bust, improving visibility and safety for deputies. Additionally, the drone’s ability to drop food, water, or medical supplies can be lifesaving. For example, if a stranded hiker is injured and awaiting rescue, the drone can deliver a first aid kit or hydration, sustaining them until help arrives.
Funded through Opioid Settlement Funds, this purchase directly addresses the opioid crisis plaguing Monroe County. “These drones will play a critical role in combating opioid-related crime, from reconnaissance of drug trafficking sites to rescuing individuals affected by substance abuse in remote areas,” said Sheriff Mike Heller. “By using settlement funds, we’re turning a tragic epidemic into an opportunity to save lives and protect our community, all while keeping our deputies out of harm’s way.”
The drones’ versatility extends beyond drug enforcement to a wide range of public safety missions. In search and rescue operations, the larger drone’s infrared capabilities can locate missing children or elderly residents in rural areas, even in adverse weather conditions. During active shooter incidents, real-time aerial footage can provide critical situational awareness, enabling deputies to neutralize threats efficiently. The floodlight and high-definition cameras also support investigations by illuminating and documenting crime scenes with precision, preserving evidence for prosecution.
“This investment reflects Monroe County’s commitment to embracing advanced technology to enhance public safety,” said County Clerk Jeremy Meadows. “The drones will not only improve our Sheriff’s Office’s response to emergencies but also strengthen our community’s resilience. We’re grateful to use Opioid Settlement Funds to address both the opioid crisis and broader safety needs without burdening taxpayers.”
The Monroe County Commission views this acquisition as part of a broader strategy to integrate innovative solutions into county operations. From supporting fire services with levy funds to investing in community programs, the county continues to prioritize technology-driven initiatives that safeguard residents. “These drones are a game-changer for Monroe County,” said Commission President Melvin Young. “They empower our Sheriff’s Office to protect our citizens more effectively while keeping our deputies safe. This is another step in our mission to make Monroe County a safer, stronger community, and we’re proud to fund it through opioid settlement resources.”
The drones will undergo rigorous training and certification processes, ensuring deputies are fully equipped to operate them in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations (14 C.F.R. Part 107) and West Virginia Code § 61-16-2 (unmanned aircraft systems). The Sheriff’s Office will also establish protocols to protect citizen privacy, aligning with federal privacy laws (e.g., Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a) and state regulations.
Monroe County invites residents to learn more about this initiative at the next Commission meeting or by contacting the County Clerk’s Office. “We’re not just investing in technology; we’re investing in the future of our community,” added Sheriff Heller. “These drones will save lives, reduce crime, and make Monroe County a safer place for all.”
For additional information, please contact Jeremy Meadows, County Clerk, at (304) 772-3096 ext. 3 or jmeadows@monroecountywv.gov.
