Sheriff seeks grants for patrol drones and upgraded body scanner; commissioners approve applications

Kosciusko County commissioners granted the sheriff’s office permission to apply for two grants to expand technology in patrol and corrections. The first request, presented by Joshua Spangle, sought a $19,996 Community Foundation grant to purchase four compact, patrol-car-mounted drones (adding to the department’s existing units) so that each shift would have a drone in the patrol car. The department said the drones include thermal capability and will speed response and reduce risk to officers.

The board also approved filing an application for the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute’s 2025 JAG (Justice Assistance Grant) program to fund an upgraded body scanner for the jail. Sheriff’s Office staff estimated the project would cost about $200,000 but noted the JAG application allows requests up to $250,000; they asked permission to apply for the full allowable amount to maximize funding options. Presenters said newer scanners can integrate with the jail’s booking system and retain scans for potential evidentiary use.

Both grant applications were approved by motion and voice vote. Commissioners and staff clarified the drone program will require trained operators and that the body scanner request is not a matching grant; the jail will proceed with product selection, training and maintenance planning if funding is secured.

Next steps: the sheriff’s office will complete and submit both grant applications and, if awarded, return with contract and procurement requests for formal approval and implementation planning.