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Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones) in Law Enforcement

Course Description
This training will introduce officers to the use of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), commonly called “drones”, for both evidence collection and search operations. The course will cover all aspects of UAS operations, including preparations for the mandatory FAA Part 107 licensing. It will include information on the necessary waiver to fly in populated areas and night operation of drones. Hands-on experience with full-sized drones will give officers the confidence and ability to operate in a safe manner. Evidence collections in both photo and video format will be addressed, as well as the legal aspects of how to handle and store this information, as it differs from standard photo/video collection rules.

Finally, the Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act, ILCS 725/167 will be discussed to provide officers and their departments with a clear understanding about operating drones within the confines of the law, including the mandate to inform the State about maintenance and flight operations. Upon completion of this course, attendees will possess the knowledge to successfully take and pass their Part 107 FAA pilot’s exam to become a licensed pilot. They will also be able to assist in creating proper departmental policies and procedures for operating drones.

Course Objectives
Identify the following: All state and federal laws pertaining to Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS); different types of airspace; weather and weather-related conditions including cloud formations, types of fog, and wind conditions and how they play a role in the flight of a sUAS; loading and performance factors; airport and airfield standards, including left traffic patterns, METARS, TAFs, sectional charts, longitude and latitude; crew resource management, including types of attitudes, visual observers, Remote Pic, and the effects of drugs and alcohol; radio communication including 2.4 and 5 GHz, AWOS, ASOS, licensed frequencies, and CTAF; Emergency, Lost-Link, and Flyaway procedures; launch and recovery; and Plan B and C.

Perform the procedures for: Vertical takeoff and landing, basic flight maneuvers, recording video, taking still images, autonomous flights, pre-flight and maintenance, equipment replacement, record keeping, pre- and post-flight inspection, and logbook maintenance.
Gain the necessary knowledge and skills to test for and earn the FAA certification for sUAS Operator.
Understand the Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act. 


Funded in Partnership with the Illinois Law Enforcement Training & Standards Board and Homeland Security Grant.

This training covers the following mandates:

• Civil Rights - 1 hours
• Constitutional / Proper Use of LE Authority - 4 hours
• Legal Updates - 1 hours
• Procedural Justice - 1 hours
• Use of Force: Officer Safety Techniques - 1 hours