On February 17, 2026, the Durham Regional Police Service launched a new pilot project in Ajax, Ontario, that uses automated drones to reach emergency scenes before officers arrive. The program is designed to give police an immediate aerial view during high-risk calls or searches for missing persons.
According to the Durham Regional Police Service, these drones are stored in special docks located throughout the community and can often fly to a call within 60 seconds. This allows for real-time information to be shared with officers, paramedics, and firefighters before they reach the scene.
Inspector Rob Williamson, who leads the drone project, says the system will not be used for general surveillance. The police have also confirmed that the technology is strictly prohibited from using facial recognition or any other tools to automatically identify people.
While the police have used drones through their field support unit since 2016, this is the first time they will be used as a primary response tool. Residents can attend a public information night and see live drone demonstrations on February 26, 2026, at the Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax.
