Drone demonstration conducted with Jefferson County Sheriff's Office

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. (WIAT) -- Grace3 Technologies and Skydio Technology hosted a drone demonstration for the Technology Division and drone personnel with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office on Friday.

The demonstration took place at 10 a.m. at the Bessemer Recreation Center. 50 students from the Bessemer City School System were also invited to participate in the demonstration.

The JCSO currently uses drones for surveillance, search and rescue, crime scene analysis, traffic monitoring and crowd control.

“As drones have become more accessible and affordable, drones for law enforcement use
have become integral to policing strategies, helping law enforcement agencies tackle
challenges that would otherwise require more time, resources, and personnel,” said Sheriff
Mark Pettway. “Drones provide an aerial perspective that enhances situational awareness
and allows officers to respond to incidents more effectively."