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By Lisa Lovering
Law enforcement agencies face numerous challenges in ensuring public safety and responding to emergencies. Some of these challenges include difficult terrain that can be inaccessible or hazardous, hindering rapid response and investigation efforts. Another challenge is the evolving tactics criminals and terrorists use to commit crimes, requiring law enforcement to adopt innovative technologies to stay ahead. Other concerns include limited resources, rising crime rates and complex emergencies that strain existing resources and staffing.
UAVs and Law Enforcement
Once a hobbyist’s toy, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) — commonly known as drones — have become a valuable tool for law enforcement agencies across the nation. UAVs have truly revolutionized public safety by providing real-time aerial video of crime scenes, search areas and potential threats. These capabilities allow officers to assess situations more effectively and respond accordingly.
Drones can be deployed rapidly to search for missing persons or victims of natural disasters. Their ability to cover large areas quickly can significantly improve the chances of a successful rescue. They can capture high-resolution images and videos of crime scenes, providing crucial evidence for investigations. This technology can also be used to document accidents, natural disasters and other incidents. Drones help deter crime by increasing the perceived police presence; they can also be used to monitor crowds and identify potential threats during public events.
However, the initial investment in drones, along with the necessary training and equipment, can be a significant financial burden for many law enforcement departments. Fortunately, a variety of grants and other funding opportunities are available to help agencies acquire and utilize this technology.
Federal Grant Funding for Drones
Federal grant funding for law enforcement drone technology is offered at different times during the year, so it is important to search often for grant opportunities. Some possible sources of grant funds for UAVs include the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These agencies offer multiple funding programs that prioritize public safety initiatives and community policing. FEMA provides grants to support disaster preparedness and response efforts, while DHS offers grants to enhance homeland security and counterterrorism efforts. These grants can also be used to purchase drones for surveillance and intelligence-gathering purposes.
One good example of a federal grant applicable for drone purchases is the Operation Stonegarden (OPSG) Program. This grant is specifically for agencies that serve areas in close proximity to the border. Another grant is FEMA’s Port Security Grant Program, which aims to “help protect critical port infrastructure from terrorism, enhance maritime domain awareness, improve port-wide maritime security risk management….” These grants are not currently open for applications, but applicants who qualify should be aware and watch for them to open.
Note that law enforcement agencies can also apply for these grants to purchase drones for use in search and rescue operations and disaster recovery.
State and Local Grant Funding for Drones
There are also state and local grants available for UAV purchases. Many states offer grants to law enforcement agencies to support public safety initiatives. Some cities and counties also offer grants to law enforcement agencies within their jurisdictions. These grants may be specific to certain types of projects, such as drug enforcement or community policing, so it’s important to make sure your drone application matches the grant’s mandate.
In addition to public-sector grants, numerous private foundations and charitable organizations also offer grants to law enforcement agencies. These foundations may have specific areas of focus, such as crime prevention or community outreach. In many cases, they are funded by local business owners, who donate so they can feel connected to and invested in the projects they support.
In Missouri and Kansas, the Hero Fund provides grants for drones. CSX Community Grants provide funding opportunities that cover drones in 23 states. In Colorado, the El Pomar Foundation provides grants through a competitive application process. Again, it is important to read through each program’s application to make sure your agency meets the criteria set forth in the grant requirements.
Drone Manufacturers and Distributors
Drone manufacturers and distributors may also offer grants, discounts or financing options to law enforcement agencies. These programs may be tied to specific models or purchase quantities. They may also include the training as part of their grant.
Many manufacturers and distributors have mailing lists that provide timely information about the schedule and requirements associated with their grants. Consult these companies’ websites for more information.
Maximizing Success for a Drone Grant
To increase your chances of securing a grant for law enforcement drones, it is essential to do your research and have a clear understanding of the costs involved. For example, an agency drone purchase will include the initial cost of the drone itself, plus the cost of additional accessories equipment (such as ground stations, batteries and software) needed for effective drone operations. You would also need to include the cost of training officers to operate the drone safely and effectively and the salaries of officers involved in drone operations, including flight time and maintenance.
To increase your chances of a successful UAV grant, you’ll want to identify all potential grant opportunities and carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements. Your grant proposal should clearly articulate the need for drones, how they will be used and the expected benefits to the community. Be prepared to submit supporting documentation such as agency budgets, letters of support and jurisdictional crime statistics. Describe in detail how the drone will improve public safety by addressing specific law enforcement challenges. Emphasize the potential benefits of drone technology, such as improved situational awareness, faster response times and cost savings. Provide a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with drone acquisition, training and operations.
Collaborating with other agencies on your grant applications can significantly increase the amount of funding you receive. Partnering with organizations like fire departments, emergency management agencies or search and rescue groups can expand your funding opportunities and improve your chances of securing grants. You can also build relationships with grant writers, government officials and other law enforcement agencies to enhance your chances of success.
Looking Forward
Keep up to date on opportunities for grant funding for law enforcement drone technology by subscribing to relevant newsletters (including Lexipol’s quarterly grants update) and following government agency announcements. If needed, consider hiring a professional grant writer to assist with the application process.
The implementation of UAV technology is revolutionizing law enforcement operations, providing agencies with the tools necessary to safeguard our communities and respond more effectively to emerging threats. Investing in unmanned aerial technology means investing in a safer and more secure future for all. By carefully planning and executing your grant application strategy, law enforcement agencies can secure the necessary funding to acquire and utilize drone technology effectively, enhancing public safety and community well-being.
Lexipol’s team of expert grant writers, researchers and project managers is invested in providing grant services and assistance for law enforcement, fire service, EMS, dispatch, corrections and local government organizations. Let us build a custom grants solution for you!