Drone Unit

  1. 1 Tomball PD drone unit flying the drone
  2. 2 Tomball PD drone unit flying the drone
  3. 3 Tomball PD drone unit flying the drone
  4. 4 Tomball PD drone unit flying the drone
  5. 5 Tomball PD Drone photo
  6. 6 Tomball PD Drone photo
  7. 7 Tomball PD Drone photo

The purpose of the small unmanned aircraft (drone) program of the Tomball Police Department is to provide an added resource to the agency that enhances the safety of the public as well as its members. This technology not only allows for a safer, more effective and thorough search and rescue mechanism, it can also provide officers with the ability to analyze potential threats on active scenes and prevent unnecessary injuries. 

The Tomball Police Department has a total of 2 drones in active service. The Department has 6 officers in various stages of becoming drone operators. Each operator will hold a Remote Pilot Certificate license from the FAA. 





Below are ways in which Tomball Police Department uses drones:


Surveillance and Monitoring: Police surveillance drones have become a staple for law enforcement agencies. With them, officers can monitor large public events, oversee crowd dynamics, or discreetly keep tabs on suspected areas.

Crime Scene Analysis: Gone are the days when investigators solely rely on ground-level photos and sketches. Drones for crime scene investigation are now being employed to provide an unmatched bird’s eye perspective, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Clarity and detail in images can be the difference between missing and identifying a crucial piece of evidence.



Tomball PD Drone photo
Tomball PD drone unit

Search and Rescue Operations:  Tomball PD drones are equipped with thermal sensors.  In situations where every second counts, our drones can scour vast terrains, forests, or waters, using thermal cameras to detect the heat signatures of lost or endangered individuals.

Traffic Management and Accident Assessment: Rather than relying solely on ground units, police departments are using drones to swiftly assess traffic incidents. This facilitates quicker scene resolutions, alleviating traffic congestion and ensuring rapid emergency response. Tomball utilizes drones to capture 3-dimensional images of traffic scenes which assists the Department in future case filing.

Tactical Operations: When dealing with high-risk operations, situational awareness is paramount. Drones offer an aerial viewpoint, providing crucial intelligence without putting officers directly in harm’s way. Tomball has utilized drones to minimize danger to responding officers while providing a real-time view into difficult-to-reach areas.