HomeMy WebLinkAboutDrone Program
2530 Maria Louise Lane Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 573-335-6621 Tel 573-339-6362 Fax
cityofcape.org/police facebook.com/capepolice
NEWS RELEASE
Date: 1-5-2026 Media Relations Office
For Immediate Release 573-335-6621 / F: 573-339-6362
Ptlm. Bobby Newton (x1393)
Rnewton@cityofcape.org
CGPD Introduces New Drone Program to Enhance Public Safety
The Cape Girardeau Police Department is excited to share the launch of its new drone
program, designed to enhance public safety, improve response times, and support
officers in the field.
The department’s drone is a semi-autonomous system equipped with advanced safety
and operational features. It is programmed with geo-fencing technology that prevents it
from operating in restricted airspace such as near airports, hospitals, and other
sensitive locations, ensuring compliance with all safety and aviation guidelines.
Mounted on the rooftop of Police Headquarters, the drone can be rapidly deployed to
assist with a variety of incidents. Once airborne, its camera is positioned at the horizon
level, allowing officers to gain real-time situational awareness while responding to calls
for service. The drone is capable of flying for approximately 30 minutes on a single
battery and can cover up to 28 square miles. Additional batteries are readily available
and can be swapped out quickly to extend operations when needed.
Multiple members of the Cape Girardeau Police Department have received specialized
training to operate the drone safely and effectively. This ensures the program is
sustainable, well managed, and available when needed most.
The goal of this program is to enhance safety for our officers and for the community we
serve. This technology allows us to gather critical information more quickly, improve
situational awareness, and respond more efficiently during emergencies.
The Cape Girardeau Police Department remains committed to transparency and
responsible use of technology while continuing to find innovative ways to serve and
protect the community. For more information about the drone program or other
department initiatives, please visit our website.
Business Line: 573-335-6621
Anonymous Tip Line: 573-339-6313
Text "CAPEPD" to 847411
2530 Maria Louise Lane Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 573-335-6621 Tel 573-339-6362 Fax
cityofcape.org/police facebook.com/capepolice