Title
Report regarding a resolution authorizing the use of $136,048.11 of Police Asset Forfeiture Funds to purchase Unmanned Aerial Systems in conjunction with Axon Air (Scott Campbell, Chief of Police)
label
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Staff recommends the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the use of $136,048.11 of Police Asset Forfeiture Funds for a Purchasing Agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc., to provide an unmanned aerial systems program for a five-year term.
Body
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
An unmanned aerial system (UAS), often referred to as a drone, is an aircraft which is controlled remotely from the ground. UAS may be used to provide an aerial observation platform to enhance the efficiency and safety of police operations. The ability to provide this aerial view can enhance officer safety without placing additional officers at risk while increasing public safety and aid in the apprehension of suspected criminals. The utilization of a UAS during an area search can also dramatically reduce the time needed to search the area, reducing the drain on resources, and minimizing the impact on the public. The uses of UAS include, but are not limited to, scene documentation, area searches for people and/or evidence, disaster response, tactical operations, and critical incident management.
Drone technology has improved significantly over the last several years, making the use of this equipment an increasingly essential part of law enforcement operations. Over the past year, the Police Department has requested assistance from outside agencies 30 times, 27 of which were requests for UAS assistance. The Police Department wishes to implement a UAS program, and has identified Axon Enterprise, Inc., as providing a comprehensive solution which is the best fit for our agency.
Axon Air, a division of Axon Enterprise, Inc., is a UAS program built for law enforcement. The system includes automated tracking of pilot, aircraft, flight logs, and live streaming ...
Click here for full text