MNPD launching drone first responder trial program in Madison Metro Nashville Police are preparing to launch a new Drone as First Responder trial program in Madison aimed at helping officers respond to emergencies faster. The limited trial program begins Tuesday, May 26, and will operate out of the Madison Precinct. Three drones stationed on the roof of the precinct will be able to respond within a two-mile radius to emergency calls, active criminal investigations, missing person cases, and major traffic crashes. Police say the drones can often arrive at scenes within one to two minutes, giving officers critical real-time information before they arrive. “The major benefit is the time it takes to arrive on scene, it's like a minute to 2 minutes, they don't have to deal with traffic they can get to a scene and give you all the information that you need quickly,” Chief John Drake said. The drones will be operated remotely by four FAA-certified officers from the department’s Community Safety Center who received specialized drone training. MNPD says departments across the country — including Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, and Charlotte — already use similar programs. MNPD emphasizes program is NOT surveillance Police say the drones are not intended for random neighborhood patrols or general surveillance. Officials stressed the drones will only be used in response to specific calls for service where aerial views could improve safety and decision-making during emergencies. MNPD also says: - The drones do not use facial recognition software - The drones cannot be weaponized under state law and department policy - Flights will be publicly logged online - Non-evidence video footage will be permanently deleted after seven days Police say access to drone footage will be limited to trained personnel and investigators handling cases connected to the footage. The trial program is