BCPD Drone Program

 The Boyne City Police Department created a drone program in 2023 and currently has five FAA part 107 pilots on staff.  Our small unmanned aircraft system fleet consists of one DJI M30T, one DJI M3T and two DJI Avata aircraft.  The M30T and M3T aircraft both provide advanced image and video capabilities with thermal imaging technology.  The M30T is also equipped with a speaker/spotlight combination.  The Avata aircraft are intended for indoor use and are flown with first-person vision goggles.  

Our drone program was generously funded completely through donations from the following organizations: the Charlevoix County Community Foundation, Classic Instruments Annual Open House Car Show, and the Charlevoix Lions Club.  

In the short existence of our drone program, it has proven to be effective and beneficial to both the City of Boyne City and the surrounding communities.  

Our small unmanned aircraft have been used in support of local fire departments during structure fire operations, overwatch for community events and high-risk law enforcement operations, public relations events, gathering evidence following traffic crashes, and broadcasting messages during community events among others.    

Our drone unit was developed alongside the drone unit of the Charlevoix County Sheriff's Department, with whom we work closely.  Both departments purchased equipment from the same manufacturer allowing for seamless interoperability, adding to the regional team concept.