Full Notification

Drone First Responder Program Assists in Swift Arrest Following Aggravated Battery Investigation
 

MERIDIAN, Idaho — This afternoon, at approximately 12:45 p.m., the Meridian Police Department's Drone First Responder (DFR) program played a critical role in the quick apprehension of a suspect following an aggravated battery investigation.

As officers responded to the reported incident, the suspect, identified as Ryan COX, 35, of Meridian, fled the scene before officers arrived. The department's Drone First Responder was immediately deployed, providing responding officers with real-time information from the scene.
The drone quickly located the suspect vehicle and followed it to the 1500 block of S. Loder Pl. This real-time information allowed responding officers to go directly to the suspect's location while maintaining situational awareness before making contact.

Upon arrival, officers determined the suspect had gone into hiding. After multiple announcements directing him to surrender were unsuccessful, a Meridian Police K9 team was deployed, resulting in the suspect's apprehension.

The suspect was transported to a local hospital for medical clearance before being booked into the Ada County Jail.
 

The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

By locating the suspect, and providing real-time updates throughout the incident, the Drone First Responder program enhanced officer safety, improved situational awareness, and helped bring the incident to a safe and efficient resolution.
 

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The Meridian Police Department’s mission is to provide the highest quality service in partnership with the community to preserve and protect life and property through education, prevention and enforcement. The department has 147 police officers, and 45 non-sworn staff dedicated to making Meridian a great place to live, work and raise a family