The City of Victorville has introduced a new public safety initiative designed to improve how emergencies are handled across the community. Officials recently announced the launch of a Drones as First Responder (DFR) Program, a system that uses strategically placed drones to assist law enforcement in responding more quickly and effectively to calls for service.

Approved by the City Council in late 2025 through a three-year agreement with BRINC Drones, Inc., the program is now in operation—making Victorville the first contract city in San Bernardino County to implement this type of drone response technology in partnership with the Sheriff’s Department.

The system includes a network of drones stationed at designated launch sites throughout the city. When a call comes in, drones can be deployed to the scene, transmitting live, high-definition video back to the Victorville Police Department’s Real-Time Information Center. This allows dispatchers and officers to assess situations in real time, gather critical details, and better understand what they’re responding to before arriving.

Officials say the technology can play a key role in improving safety for both residents and first responders. By providing an aerial view, drones can help determine whether weapons are present, track movement, and support de-escalation efforts—ultimately enhancing situational awareness and response strategies.

The drone program builds on other recent public safety investments in Victorville, including the rollout of gunshot detection technology and a citywide network of license plate readers. Together, these tools are intended to support faster response times, more effective investigations, and proactive crime prevention.

City leaders emphasized that while the technology offers significant benefits, its use is carefully regulated. Drone deployments are limited to legitimate law enforcement purposes such as active incidents, search and rescue operations, and crime scene documentation, with safeguards in place to protect privacy and ensure transparency.

Funded through state-supported law enforcement resources, the program reflects Victorville’s ongoing effort to adopt innovative solutions that enhance public safety while meeting the needs of a growing community.