GLYNCO, Ga. — The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) hosted the maiden voyage of the Law Enforcement sUAS Pilot Instructor Collaboration and Technology Forum from Sept. 17 through 19, in Glynco, Ga. The event brought together experts and practitioners nationwide to exchange ideas, best practices, and innovative procedures related to small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) programs. It provided a vital platform for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to collaborate on the evolving landscape of sUAS usage in government operations.
The forum featured presentations, discussions, and hands-on flight labs aimed at enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies utilizing sUAS technology. A notable highlight was the Department of Homeland Security’s Aviation Marine Integration Office (AMIO), which addressed key issues surrounding the deployment of sUAS in governmental settings. Discussions included forming an air unit within DHS, aircraft procurement, and navigating the legislative and regulatory requirements crucial to the program’s operation.
“The forum offered collaboration opportunities and introduced different agencies to the FLETC Law Enforcement Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Pilot Training Program, which provides FAA Remote Pilot, Part 107, certification testing. This allows agencies to start their own sUAS aviation units. It was the first of its kind and a great success, fostering open discussion and training,” said Milt Kennedy, Law Enforcement Instructor, FLETC Enforcement Operations Division.
Representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also played a pivotal role, particularly through the Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP). LEAP agents explained their responsibilities and offered insights on collaborating with the FAA to investigate and prosecute UAS violations. Their guidance on airspace regulations was particularly beneficial to attendees seeking to understand the complexities of legal compliance in UAS operations.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) presented on the integration of sUAS in response to natural disasters and other emergencies, emphasizing how these technologies enhance situational awareness and disaster response. FEMA’s session highlighted the importance of sUAS in emergency management and provided a practical overview of their benefits and challenges.
The Law Enforcement Drone Association (LEDA) shared case studies of real-world UAS missions, demonstrating the diverse applications of sUAS across different levels of government. These examples underscored the need for robust coordination and communication among agencies to maximize operational effectiveness. Additionally, a comprehensive review of current UAS case law provided a legal framework for attendees, helping them navigate evolving regulations and judicial interpretations impacting sUAS use in law enforcement.
Participants also engaged in hands-on flight labs, gaining practical experience under various flying conditions. These labs allowed attendees to apply the concepts discussed during the sessions, enhancing their operational proficiency with sUAS technology.
“The FLETC forum was highly informative, bringing together pilots from various agencies to share ideas and experiences. The unique combination of classroom sessions led by subject matter experts and hands-on operational flying optimized the time spent at the forum. After learning more of the course offering, I highly recommend the FLETC course to those involved in their respective sUAS programs,” said Jason Lowe, Program Manager, Tallahassee Police Department.
As the use of sUAS technology continues to expand within law enforcement, forums like this are essential for fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among agencies. Law enforcement agencies interested in participating in future forums or learning more about integrating sUAS into their operations are encouraged to express their interest by contacting FLETC at fletceodosksuas@fletc.dhs.gov. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the next collaborative effort to advance the use of sUAS in law enforcement.
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