HPD releases footage of first drone-assisted arrest

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Honolulu Police Department released footage from its first drone-assisted arrest.

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In a video posted to social media Sunday, the department showcased how its new Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program was used to arrest three suspects in a recent crime spree.

On Wednesday, the drone tracked vehicles and suspects in HPD’s Crime Reduction Unit’s (CRU) investigation.

Police said the suspects were connected to a car break-in, burglary, auto theft and robbery while inside.

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The department said they tracked stolen Apple AirPods and linked the location to the suspect’s vehicle, a black Chevy Spark.

CRU requested DFR’s assistance to track the suspects and provided real-time support.

The vehicle stopped near Loʻi Kalo Mini Park. Two fled on foot and were quickly detained, including the one with the stolen AirPods. DFR located the third suspect hiding near the Palama Street off-ramp.

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The department said the investigation is ongoing.

For more information about HPD’s DFR program, visit www.HonoluluPD.org/DFR.