ORLANDO — The Orlando Police Department officially launched its drone-as-first-responder program on June 24, 2026, following a nine-month testing period that included over 900 deployments. During the testing phase beginning in October 2025, drones arrived before officers at reported crime scenes in 43% of cases and provided useful information in 92% of deployments, aiding in locating 90 vehicles and more than 150 suspects. Chief Eric Smith stated the drones are intended for crimes in progress, particularly violent crimes, to provide reconnaissance for responding officers. "This is to keep officers safe, help officers respond quicker and keep our community safe," Smith said.

On May 31, 2026, a drone was dispatched to a MetroWest neighborhood after a possible stabbing report where the caller could only provide an intersection. The drone arrived before officers, confirmed the location, and provided updates as individuals fled. A woman was recorded punching a victim and was subsequently arrested at the scene for domestic battery; the case is ongoing in Orange County court.

The program includes 11 drones positioned across Orlando, with one stationed on the police headquarters roof in the Parramore neighborhood, nicknamed the "Downtown Defender." Equipped with thermal imaging, the drones can zoom in on license plates and vehicle interiors from dozens of feet above. Pilots control the units from the real-time crime center using a mouse, keyboard, or Xbox controller, with capabilities to lock onto GPS coordinates and track target vehicles automatically.

The program will cost approximately $6.8 million over nine years, averaging $759,000 annually. Mayor Buddy Dyer noted a 58% decline in homicides and a 19% drop in overall crime in Orlando from 2024 to 2025, stating, "We believe that the drone-as-first-responder program will build on that impact." Smith clarified the drones lack AI software like facial recognition and are not used to look into private spaces. Smith plans to hold community meetings in July 2026 to explain the program, while noting that an online search feature for deployments is not currently available but could change in the future.