Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann and Police Chief Jeff Wanamaker have announced that the Clarkstown Police Department (CPD) now operates the most advanced and extensive municipal police drone division in New York State.
According to officials, CPD’s drone unit has repeatedly proven invaluable in both emergency and planned operations. Just last week, drone officers assisted the Orangetown Police Department in the successful recovery of a missing person. The department’s drones have also played a critical role in containing CSX brush fires and supporting other major response incidents over recent years.
CPD currently operates four drones, including specialized interior units designed for building searches. With 16 trained drone officers, at least two are on patrol at all times to ensure rapid deployment when needed. The drones are routinely used for accident reconstruction, missing person searches, and large-scale events — both planned (such as parades or community gatherings) and unplanned (including fires, disasters, and hostage situations).
In addition to their operational drones, CPD has implemented cutting-edge software capable of identifying unauthorized drones entering restricted or sensitive areas, such as crime or accident scenes.
Supervisor Hoehmann emphasized that the Town of Clarkstown and the Town Board remain committed to supporting ongoing technological advancements within the department. “These advanced capabilities ensure we can protect all residents and visitors to our town while continuing to assist neighboring municipalities when called upon,” Hoehmann said.
Chief Wanamaker added that CPD’s drone division represents “a model of innovation and preparedness” for public safety agencies statewide.
