A wave of enthusiasm swept through Benton today as officials unveiled a pioneering step toward faster emergency assistance.
The Benton Police Department announced a trial program for a Drone as First Responder system, partnering with BRINC Drones and Motorola, with a public demonstration slated for Oct. 8, 2026, to showcase how aerial technology could give first responders earlier eyes on emergencies.
Drone as First Responder trial announced
The Benton Police Department said the trial will test Drone as First Responder technology in partnership with BRINC Drones and Motorola. The goal is to give police, fire and emergency medical responders faster situational awareness. Details on how the drones will be deployed are not yet known.
Officials explained that drones can arrive before officers, firefighters or paramedics, providing aerial views of incidents. This capability is intended to improve safety for both the community and first responders. Specific performance metrics have not yet been disclosed.
A public demonstration is scheduled for October 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Benton Police Department Training Room. Residents are invited to watch the drone in action and ask questions. The event will showcase how the system works.
The program is described as a trial, and no timeline for broader deployment has been announced. The department has not indicated the cost or the number of drones to be used. It remains to be seen how the technology will be integrated into daily operations.
Leave a Reply