We extend a special thank you to our external reviewers: Nikita Ermolaev, Sr. Research Engineer, IPVM; and Jerome D. Greco, Digital Forensics Director, The Legal Aid Society.
Summary
In this report, S.T.O.P. details the vast expansion of NYPD’s drone program. The report shows that NYPD drone use skyrocketed 3,200% from 2022 to 2024, with NYPD rapidly deploying more unmanned aircraft for routine patrols instead of only in emergencies.
Key Findings Include:
The NYPD’s drone program has rapidly morphed into a sprawling surveillance operation, with officers routinely patrolling the city.
Drones threaten New Yorkers’ safety as well as their privacy.
The NYPD currently operates its drone program with little oversight and few limits. It has even announced a plan to coopt civilian city agencies’ drone footage.
