A Debate Over Police Drones

The decision by the California Supreme Court that ends a long legal dispute between the City of Chula Vista and the La Prensa San Diego publication is over, the debate over the use of drones by law enforcement departments is still out there.

The lawsuit was over the public release of drone footage taken by Chula Vista police, one of the first departments to use them a few years ago.

But now with other police and sheriff’s departments using drones, there are some citizens and community organizations who express concerns about invasion of privacy and surveillance.

You hear similar criticism at times from some about the license plate readers on street lights.

But law enforcement officials say the use of drones, some of which feature thermal imaging, can quickly help know what’s going on, improve officer safety by allowing remote monitoring from dangerous situations, and offer a cost-effective alternative to manned helicopters. 

And those license plate readers have proven to be very effective at finding crime suspects.

So while most agree there should be safeguards drones and other technology are here to stay, with most agreeing that they do help keep communities safer.

(Photo reporting partner 10News)