Cedar rapids council approves $14m drone program for 911 calls
Drones could arrive first at some scenes to give officers real-time views under the new package.
The Cedar Rapids City Council approved a $14 million technology upgrade package that includes a Drone as First Responder program.
Under the plan, drones would be sent to certain 911 calls ahead of officers to supply live video of the scene.
"This technology allows us to get eyes on a scene before an officer even arrives, which can be the difference between life and death in critical situations," a Cedar Rapids Police Department representative said.
The approval came in July 2026. Details on rollout timing and how the money will be divided have not been released.
The change affects response times for Cedar Rapids and Linn County residents who call 911.
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