THOMAS COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - The Thomas County Sheriff's Office is rolling out a new piece of equipment, a drone.
They say it will eliminate the cost of a helicopter when searching for missing people or tracking down suspects on the run.
The Thomas County Sheriff's Office says getting a drone has been in the works for many years now. The county purchased the drone last year and after training, it went for its first flight this month.
Just like consumers stay up to date on the latest technology, they say they have to as well.
The drone will be used in missing persons cases, or if they are looking for suspects in a specific area.
According to deputies, the drone has already been used in a recent armed robbery case.
Captain Steve Jones says they will use the drone now instead of a helicopter which will be less costly for tax payers.
"We figured the cost of the drone was about what it costs to operate a helicopter for one mission. You're talking about having to fly in from either wherever the state patrol helicopter is coming from or Leon County if they come up to assist us, you have that flying time, fuel cost, the pilot costs," said Jones. "That drone by itself, for one mission will pay for what a helicopter costs."
The department also has a night vision camera for the drone to ensure tracking at night won't be an issue.
