First Responder Drones Coming Soon
CONROE, TEXAS — The Conroe Police Department has formally launched its new Drone First Responder (DFR) Program, an initiative designed to give officers and dispatchers real‑time aerial intelligence during emergency calls. The program follows a December 11, 2025, vote by the Conroe City Council authorizing Chief Jon Buckholtz to use seized criminal asset funds to purchase the equipment needed to implement the system.
Under that authorization, the department acquired two American‑made Skydio X10 drones along with two docking stations. The department emphasized that the program was funded entirely through seized assets, with no taxpayer dollars used. Officials said the approach allows money taken from criminal activity to be reinvested directly into public safety.
The DFR system places drone docking stations at strategic locations across the city. From a remote operations center, FAA‑certified Part 107 pilots can launch drones immediately when certain calls for service come in. In many cases, the drones can reach a scene before officers, providing live video to dispatchers and responding units.
Police leaders say the technology will improve situational awareness, support safer decision‑making, and help the department allocate resources more efficiently.
Program Capabilities
- Faster Response Times — Drones can fly directly to an incident, bypassing traffic and arriving ahead of officers.
- Enhanced Officer Safety — Real‑time aerial video gives officers critical information before they enter a scene.
- Improved Crime Response — Drones can help locate suspects during active incidents or when individuals flee.
- Search and Rescue — Useful for locating missing children, elderly residents, and vulnerable adults.
- Efficient Call Handling — Some calls, such as suspicious activity or hazard checks, may be resolved without sending an officer.
- Traffic and Crash Management — Aerial views help responders assess congestion and manage crash scenes.
- Fire Department Support — Provides overhead perspectives during fires and other emergencies.
The department said the program will operate in full compliance with federal regulations and will be staffed by certified pilots. A public transparency portal will be available on the Conroe Police Department website, allowing residents to view recent drone flight paths and learn more about the program.
Conroe joins a growing number of agencies nationwide , including several in Texas, that have adopted drone‑based first responder systems. Police officials say the program reflects the department’s ongoing effort to use modern technology to improve safety for both officers and the community.
