2025 Police Annual Report

DRONES AS FIRST RESPONDERS

The Orland Park Police Department expanded its innovative use of technology and took public safety to new heights with the official launch of its Drones as First Responders (DFR) program, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to fight crime, respond faster to emergencies and keep the community safer than ever. In partnership with BRINC, the Orland Park Police Department is deploying drones that can respond directly to 911 calls, often arriving on scene before officers. These state-of-the-art drones stream live aerial video, giving police crucial intelligence to better protect both residents and responding officers. “This represents a major leap forward in how we respond to emergencies,” said Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge. “It’s a game-changer for public safety and another example of Orland Park leading the way in innovative policing.” The department hosted an open house to showcase the system to neighboring jurisdictions, school board officials and local media. The event featured a missing-person demonstration and a Q&A session with Chief of Police Eric Rossi and BRINC representatives.

While the Orland Park Police Department has utilized drones locally for years, they were typically dispatched only after incidents or during investigations. The DFR program flips that model, allowing drones to launch immediately when a call for service is received. With an average response time of just 70 seconds, drones can pursue suspects, help locate missing children, provide overwatch during large-scale incidents and even deliver life-saving equipment like AEDs. “This new program strengthens our ability to fight crime and upholds our reputation as one of the most forward thinking departments in Illinois,” said Chief of Police Eric Rossi.

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