NYPD to deploy drones in Central Park to combat crime

MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Drones are expected to respond to 911 calls from Central Park. With crime on the rise in the park, the NYPD is adding the technology as a crime-fighting tool.

Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry said, “Now we are taking things to the next level to continue to keep crime down in Central Park.”

On Friday, the department is expected to expand its Drones as First Responders program to include the park. 

Drones were instrumental during a violent home invasion in Douglaston, Queens.

Police were able to quickly arrest suspects in the case, drones were sent to the location just seconds after the 9-1-1 call came in.

Daughtry added the drones can start canvassing areas for suspects that fit a specific description to give the officer a lead on who they are searching for.

We first told you when the department rolled out drones back in May. Daughtry addressed concerns during his Congress testimony. 

Since then, drones have responded to violent crime scenes, beaches, and large crowds just to name a few.

For example, when a 911 call comes in, Daughtry said the pilot can press a button to send the drone to the location, they can get there quicker than an officer on foot or in a patrol car.

Drones will not replace officers, they are just an added tool the department believes will help continue to drive crime down.