Clarkstown Police Lead the State with Advanced Drone Division, Assisting in Emergencies and Public Safety

Supervisor George Hoehmann and Clarkstown Police Chief Jeff Wanamaker are highlighting the Clarkstown Police Department’s (CPD) cutting-edge drone capabilities, making it the most advanced municipal police drone division in New York State.

Just last week, CPD’s drone officers assisted Orangetown Police in the safe recovery of a missing person, showcasing the life-saving potential of this technology. Over the past few years, CPD drones have also been deployed during major incidents, including the CSX brush fires and other large-scale emergencies.

The department currently has 16 trained drone officers, with at least two officers on duty at all times. CPD operates four drones, including specialized interior drones for building searches. These drones are used for accident reconstruction, missing person searches, and providing coverage for large-scale events—both planned, such as major gatherings, and unplanned, including brush fires, disasters, and hostage situations.

A key innovation is CPD’s new software capable of identifying drones that unlawfully enter crime or accident scenes, enhancing both safety and investigative integrity.

"CPD is proud to be the most advanced drone capable municipal police department in the State of New York." Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann wrote in a statement, "Supervisor Hoehmann and the Town Board will continue to work with CPD to increase drone capabilities moving forward as technology rapidly evolves."

With these advanced capabilities, CPD is setting a new standard in public safety, demonstrating how technology can enhance both everyday policing and emergency response.