The St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office Drone Unit is a cutting-edge team of FAA-certified Part 107 licensed pilots who operate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to enhance public safety, emergency response, and law enforcement operations across our diverse region. Equipped with advanced aerial technology, our drones provide critical real-time intelligence, search capabilities, and situational awareness in challenging environments.

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Key Missions & Operations

 

Our certified drone pilots deploy UAS technology for:
 

✔ Search & Rescue – Locating missing persons in dense forests, waterways, and remote areas
✔ Crime Scene & Accident Reconstruction – High-resolution aerial mapping for investigations
✔ Critical Incident Response – Assessing active threats, barricaded suspects, and disaster zones
✔ Wildfire & Flood Monitoring – Tracking environmental hazards and damage assessment
✔ Traffic Crash Analysis – Documenting collision scenes without prolonged road closures
✔ Public Event Security – Aerial surveillance for large gatherings, parades, and festivals

 

Technology & Compliance

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• FAA Part 107 Licensed Operators – All pilots meet strict federal aviation standards

• Advanced Thermal Imaging & Zoom Capabilities – Day/night operations in all conditions

• Real-Time Video Feed Integration – Direct coordination with incident commanders

• Strict Privacy Protections – Operations follow NY State guidelines and Fourth Amendment protections.

 

Why Drones?

 

In a county with vast rural terrain, dense forests, and numerous waterways, drones provide rapid, cost-effective, and lifesaving support—reducing risks to deputies and the public while improving operational efficiency.

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For questions about the Drone Unit’s policies or missions, contact the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office.

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To request a demonstration or drone services, click here.