High-Tech Drones Joining Miami Police Force

[sabra]

http://www.local10.com/news/14708354/detail.html

MIAMI -- The Miami-Dade police department will begin experimenting with high-tech drones as law enforcement tools beginning next year.

Although the military has been using unmanned aircraft systems for years, this will be the first time they are used in law enforcement.

"We are aware it is a great responsibility. The FAA is looking at us to see if we can professionally manage this program," said Lt. Cliff Nelson of the police department's aviation unit.

The flying camera is called a Micro Air Vehicle made by Honeywell. The MAV is remote controlled, unarmed and unmanned and can soar over 10,000 feet.

Miami-Dade police said only licensed pilots with the aviation unit will operate the devices because the airspace in the county is so busy.