Los Angeles Police Department statement regarding Unmanned Aerial Vehicles NR14212nv

Los Angeles:  On May 29, 2014, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) received from the Seattle Police Department two Draganflyer X6 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.  These vehicles were purchased by the Seattle Police Department using federal grants.  There was no cost to the City of Los Angeles.

No decision has been made whether or not these vehicles will be used.   They are currently in the custody of a Federal Law Enforcement Agency pending review by the LAPD and the Board of Police Commissioners, as well as the public.  The review would only consider narrow and prescribed uses to prevent imminent bodily harm, for example, a hostage situation or barricaded armed suspect.

Questions regarding this matter should be directed to Commander Andrew Smith, Media Relations at (213) 486-5910.