Yonkers Launches Permanent Drone-as-First-Responder Program
The Yonkers Police Department has officially launched a permanent Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, marking a major step forward in the city’s use of technology to support public safety.
The system allows drones to respond quickly to emergency calls, giving officers a real-time aerial view of incidents as they develop. This added perspective helps police better assess situations, verify information, and coordinate responses before officers arrive on the scene.
Yonkers first tested the technology during a 60-day pilot program in the summer of 2024 — the first initiative of its kind in the region. After reviewing the results of the trial and conducting a full evaluation, city leaders determined the program significantly improved situational awareness and response times. Under the direction of Mayor Mike Spano, the city moved forward with making the system a permanent part of Yonkers’ public safety operations.
The program uses two dock-based “Drone-in-a-Box” units placed in different parts of the city. Manufactured by Nokia and operated through Motorola Solutions’ CAPE drone software, the drones can reach most locations in Yonkers in under three minutes.
The drones are integrated into the city’s AWARE Crime Control Center, which brings together multiple sources of real-time information, including 911 call audio, police radio communications, and surveillance cameras. The live drone video can also be viewed by officers and supervisors on smartphones and laptops, helping them determine the safest and most effective response to unfolding incidents.
Each hexacopter drone is built to withstand Northeast weather conditions and can travel at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. The aircraft are equipped with high-resolution cameras capable of zoom and thermal imaging, allowing officers to see clearly even at night or in low-visibility conditions.
For safety, the drones can detect nearby aircraft within a three-mile range and use built-in geofencing and collision-avoidance systems within the CAPE platform. The system operates over 5G cellular networks to maintain connectivity throughout the city.
Mayor Mike Spano said the program reflects Yonkers’ continued focus on adopting innovative tools to strengthen public safety.
“This program builds on the success of our initial pilot and enhances our ability to respond quickly while supporting the officers who serve our community,” Spano said.
Police Commissioner Christopher Sapienza said the department spent months reviewing the results of the pilot program and refining how the technology would be used in Yonkers’ dense urban environment.
“This is the next step in the evolution of policing technology in our city,” Sapienza said. “It gives our officers better information while also helping improve safety for both the public and our personnel.”
Motorola Solutions also highlighted the importance of real-time intelligence in emergency response. Company officials said the technology helps officers and command staff make faster and more informed decisions during critical situations.
To promote transparency, the Yonkers Police Department will publish drone flight logs on its website. Residents will be able to see when drones are deployed, how long they operate, and the general reason for each flight. Cameras will also face the horizon when drones are not actively responding to a call to help protect privacy.
The program will initially operate about 40 hours per week, with schedules adjusted during major events or other operational needs. Police officials say the department will continue evaluating the program and may expand it in the future.
City officials say the launch reflects Yonkers’ broader commitment to using modern technology to enhance public safety while maintaining accountability to the community.
