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Shenandoah council approves police drone purchase over security concerns, 4–1
Summary
Council voted 4–1 to buy a mid-size DJI drone using asset-forfeiture funds after debate over national-security and supply-chain risks; police argued the model’s thermal imaging and weatherproofing are needed for pursuits and hazmat response.
The Shenandoah City Council voted 4–1 on Oct. 23 to approve the police department’s purchase of a mid-size drone and batteries using asset-forfeiture funds, despite council concerns about the manufacturer’s Chinese ownership and security questions.
Councilman Raymaker urged caution, noting DJI’s market dominance and listing bans and restrictions in several states and federal agencies. "I'm concerned about having these drones flying about and transmitting data back," Raymaker said, urging the city to consider U.S.-based alternatives.
Chief Troy and police staff defended the purchase, saying DJI is widely used by neighboring agencies and offers operational features the department needs, including thermal imaging, weatherproofing, and the ability to attach a speaker and spotlight. Troy described a pursuit in which a drone helped officers locate suspects hiding in brush and said officers trained on similar systems recommended the model selected.
City staff said asset-forfeiture funds—money seized and recognized during criminal convictions—may be used for law-enforcement equipment, and the purchase was brought to council for transparency. Council members asked about FAA training and program management; staff said several officers are already certified, one officer is a pilot who will participate, and a sergeant will oversee the program.
Debate touched on whether a Senate-level restriction would affect the city’s ability to buy or service the drones in the future; staff described those bills as targeting future sales rather than current ownership and noted that immediate operational needs and interagency interoperability were factors in choosing the model.
The motion to approve the purchase carried 4–1.
