The New York City Police Department (NYPD) has commenced trials for drones capable of broadcasting public safety alerts, particularly in times of emergencies. This initiative came into the Spotlight on a rain-drenched Sunday, when New York’s emergency notification system flagged a test of “remote-piloted public messaging capabilities” on Twitter.

These drones are equipped to transmit critical announcements during disasters or emergencies, a tool that could be particularly useful in neighborhoods prone to weather extremes like flooding. The tests occurred at Hook Creek Park in Queens, but NYPD remains tight-lipped about the results.

However, the use of the term “remote audio transmitters” instead of “drones” might not be accidental. The technology’s deployment could reportedly be at odds with the Public Oversight of Surveillance Technology (POST) Act. This law mandates NYPD to involve the public and publish an impact statement, with a notice period of 90 days,…

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Source: dronexl.co