Burlington Police Department Drone Team Receives National Honors

March 22, 2021 Tom Zuppa Other

BURLINGTON – Police Chief Michael Kent is pleased to announce that the Department has received national honors as an Outstanding Public Safety Drone Program.

The Department was one of three recognized in February by DroneResponders, a non-profit that promotes innovation and improved operational effectiveness in public safety drone use.

“I am very proud of our Drone Team for receiving national recognition in just its second year,” Chief Kent said. “It is a testament to the dedication and professionalism shown by Sgt. Peter Abaskharoun, Officer Sage Costa and Officer Daniel Main.”

The Department has used drones to enhance police work and increase safety for first responders and the Burlington community. The Department has used drones in search and rescue missions, tactical missions, evidence recovery and fires, and to document automobile accidents and impaired driving stops.

During one SWAT mission, an operator flew a drone to view inside the second floor of a house, allowing officers to see the occupant barricaded inside.

“By operating a drone over an incident or mission, we’re able to keep our officers and the community safer,” said Officer Costa.

As a monthly award winner, the Burlington Police Department Drone Team will be considered to become one of five finalists for the annual DroneResponders National Excellence Awards, which will be presented at AUVSI XPONENTIAL Conference later this year.