drones

The FAA says the temporary ban on drones is for special security for the Ecuador Men’s National Team, which is using Columbus as its base camp for the FIFA World Cup.

The Columbus Division of Police showed its two new helicopters on Wednesday afternoon, bringing its fleet to five.

Law enforcement agencies around the country, including the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office, are using drones as first responders. The drones launch from a set site and automatically fly to traffic incidents or crime scenes to provide overwatch before police officers arrive on scene.

Ohio is launching the nation’s first statewide drone program for first responders.

The Columbus Division of Police announced a drone pilot program on Nov. 18. The Rapid Aerial Visual Enforcement Network, or RAVEN program is designed to use drones in frontline police operations.

Columbus police have joined many other law enforcement agencies by adding drones to their fleet. The department already has a fleet of five helicopters.

The city will add two new Bell 505 Basic Aircrafts to its fleet after a unanimous vote by Columbus City Council Monday evening. Other city police departments like Dublin and county agencies like the Franklin County Sheriff's Office have started using a cheaper alternative: drones.

The Hamilton County Sheriff's Office and Dublin Police will soon use drones as first responders in some cases. Dublin Police are also adding robots with 360 degree cameras to two locations in the city. The ACLU of Ohio wants regulations on this technology to protect the privacy rights of citizens.

Many police departments around Ohio use drones, or plan to buy them soon. Some officials view drones as a viable replacement for helicopters.

The Air Force base reported additional unmanned aerial systems flying near Wright-Patt again, but said they didn't violate its protected airspace.