The NYPD has launched a new “Drone as First Responder” program, deploying drones to emergency scenes before officers arrive.

Two drones will be stationed at each of five station houses across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx.

These drones will autonomously fly to emergency locations, such as missing-person searches, gunfire detection alerts, and crimes in progress.

Equipped with high-resolution cameras, night vision, and audio microphones, the drones will send live feeds to officers on the ground, the International Business Times has reported.

While the program aims to enhance efficiency and safety, it has faced criticism from privacy advocates concerned about civil liberties and the reliability of the ShotSpotter gunfire detection system.

Written by B.C. Begley