City of Victorville to Launch Drones as First Responder Program in 2026

VICTORVILLE, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The City of Victorville is set to become the first contract city with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to implement a Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program, following a unanimous City Council vote earlier this month.

According to a written statement from the City of Victorville, the program will deploy drones at automated launch sites across the city to assist in emergency responses beginning in early 2026.

The remotely operated drones, controlled by FAA-licensed pilots, will stream high-definition video directly to the Victorville Police Department’s real-time crime center.

Officials say the DFR system will provide first responders with crucial details including location, direction of travel, and potential safety threats. “Since drones provide overwatch, they are useful in confirming or ruling out the presence of weapons and any other safety concerns,” the statement noted, emphasizing their value as a de-escalation tool and for improving officer situational awareness.

The initiative builds on Victorville’s growing public safety technology network, which already includes ShotSpotter gunshot detection and 123 automatic license plate readers installed throughout the city.

“By aligning our investments with community needs and data-driven strategies, we aim to create safer neighborhoods and ensure that every dollar spent delivers measurable value to the people we serve,” said Victorville Mayor Liz Becerra. “Equipping our emergency responders with the technology they need to be more effective and proactive is an important strategy in our efforts to increase safety in Victorville.”

The City has entered into a three-year, $831,929.18 service agreement with BRINC Drones, Inc. to implement the program. Funding will come from Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Funds provided through Assembly Bill 3229, which supports frontline municipal police services.

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