Somerset County Multi-Agency Thermal Drone Operations & Coordinated Search Working Group
This specialized working group brings together law enforcement drone operators from multiple agencies to enhance their proficiency in coordinated thermal drone operations. Hosted at the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Police Training Institute, this intensive program focuses on developing advanced skills in collaborative search patterns, synchronized surveillance operations, and tactical drone deployment using thermal imaging technology.
Participants will engage in hands-on exercises utilizing their agency's drone platforms to practice coordinated search techniques, establish standardized communication protocols, and refine best practices for multi-unit drone operations. The working group will emphasize real-world scenarios including missing person searches, fugitive tracking, and strategic surveillance operations.
Key Focus Areas:
- Coordinated flight patterns and search grid optimization
- Inter-agency communication and command protocols
- Thermal imaging interpretation and target identification
- Multi-drone deployment strategies
- Mission planning and resource allocation
- Evidence preservation and documentation procedures
Prerequisites:
- Agency-issued drone with thermal imaging capabilities
- Valid pilot certification as required by department policies
Equipment Requirements:
- Agency drone with thermal camera
- Spare batteries
- Agency radio
- Weather-appropriate gear for outdoor operations
Location: Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Police Training Institute located in the Emergency Services Training Academy (ESTA) 402 Roycefield Road, Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Time: 1300-2100hrs
Cost: No fee
Note: All participating operators must comply with current FAA regulations and their respective agency's policies regarding law enforcement drone operations.
Please contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Police Training Institute (scpti@co.somerset.nj.us) with any questions or concerns. |