Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux discussed drones, FIFA safety, response times, and regional law enforcement coordination on the June 29 episode of Let’s Talk Local. | Image by DX
Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux says drones, technology, and close coordination among North Texas law enforcement agencies are helping the Dallas Police Department improve response times and prepare for major events.
Comeaux joined Sarah Zubiate Bennett on the June 29 episode of Let’s Talk Local to discuss DPD’s drone-as-first-responder program, privacy concerns, FIFA-related safety planning, and regional cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies.
“One of the things with the drones is it helps us figure out how many officers need to make the scene,” Comeaux said.
Comeaux gave the example of a report of two men fighting in the street. A drone can reach the area within minutes and help determine whether officers still need to respond, how many officers should go, or whether a more serious threat is unfolding.
“Within a minute to 3 minutes, the drone will be overhead,” Comeaux said.
If the drone shows no one remains at the scene, Comeaux said officers can be redirected to higher-priority calls. If the drone shows a larger or more dangerous incident, officers can approach with better information.
“Now we can keep officers safe,” Comeaux said.
Comeaux said DPD has about eight or nine active drones and hopes to at least double, if not triple, that number. He said the department is pursuing government grants to help expand the program.
Bennett also asked Comeaux about privacy concerns surrounding drones and police technology.
“These drones are not flying overhead recording,” Comeaux said.
He said recording begins when the drone reaches the location tied to a police call, comparing it to what an officer would see after arriving at a scene.
Comeaux also discussed safety preparations tied to FIFA events and visitors coming to North Texas.
“We want you to come and have an amazing time,” Comeaux said. “Drink responsibly.”
He especially urged visitors unfamiliar with Texas heat to hydrate.
“Hydrate,” Comeaux said. “Hydrate in between your drinks.”
Comeaux said North Texas benefits from strong relationships among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
“We all get along from federal, state, and local law enforcement,” Comeaux said. “It’s what do we have to do to keep everyone in this region safe.”
Comeaux discussed drones, camera technology, FIFA safety, heat precautions, and regional law enforcement cooperation in the full Let’s Talk Local episode.
Watch the full conversation with Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux on Let’s Talk Local.