The Manchester by-the-Sea Police Department Drone Unit is dedicated to enhancing public safety and operational efficiency through the use of cutting-edge aerial technology. Thanks to the support of Chief Todd Fitzgerald, the Unit was established in 2020 through a State Emergency Management Performance Grant. Sergeant Ryan Machain is the supervisor and founder of the Drone Unit. He is an FAA Part 107 licensed drone operator.
Our Drone Unit supports a wide range of law enforcement activities, including search and rescue operations, crime scene documentation, traffic investigations, and special event pre-planning. The drone provides officers with real-time aerial perspectives, enabling faster and more informed decision-making in critical situations.
The Unit also serves the community in assisting the Manchester by-the-Sea Fire Department with aerial surveillance. Brush fires are often in hard-to-reach, wooded areas. The Drone Unit is able to survey these areas and locate not only a burn zone, but help establish a path to access them as well.
An aerial perspective on the water can be an invaluable advantage for the Manchester by-the-Sea Harbor Department. Our Drone Unit stands ready to help locate vessels in distress or those that have become disabled.
Operated only by trained and FAA Part 107 licensed personnel, the Drone Unit is committed to upholding strict privacy and safety standards while delivering innovative solutions to protect and serve Manchester by-the-Sea.