DATE/TIME: November 2,2026
SUMMARY: The Rancho Cucamonga Police Department (RCPD), in partnership with the City of Rancho Cucamonga, has launched its Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program to enhance emergency response and public safety through the use of drone technology.
The program provides deputies with critical, real-time information during calls for service, improving situational awareness, officer safety, and public safety. Operated by trained RCPD drone pilots, the program allows drones to be deployed within seconds and arrive at incident locations within minutes, often before responding deputies. From the air, pilots can assess potential threats, identify hazards, and relay valuable information to deputies before they arrive on scene.
The program can also be supported by the Sheriff’s Department’s Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC), which provides real-time information and operational support to deputies and supervisors during active incidents.
DFR technology supports a variety of public safety operations, including patrol responses, search and rescue missions, missing person investigations, and other critical incidents. All drone flights are logged and documented with corresponding incident numbers to ensure accountability and compliance with department policies.
All drone operations are conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and Department policies.
The launch of the DFR program reflects the Sheriff’s Department’s continued commitment to leveraging innovative technology to enhance public safety, support deputies in the field, and strengthen emergency response capabilities.
Refer: Sergeant B. Haynes
Station: Rancho Cucamonga
Phone No. (909)47-2800
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
