The Edmonton Police Service uses Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) in traffic collision investigations.
“The RPAS provides the ability to photograph and map a scene from above, which is crucial in some of our larger scenes,” says Const. Trevor Calder, lead of the RPAS program with EPS Traffic Section. “The RPAS data can then be rendered which we can then use for forensic measurements that assists our Collision Reconstructionist’s in preparing evidence for court”
Information provided by the RPAS can help investigators to see a bird’s eye view of evidence which can help with the examination of tire marks, distances and lines of sight.
Traffic Section conceived the idea of using an RPAS for collision investigation in January 2014 and since, has been piloting its use in collision reconstruction investigations. In June 2014, the EPS received its operations certificate by Transport Canada.
Major Collision Investigation Section first used the RPAS in a fatal collision on June 29, 2014 and has continued using the RPAS in major collision investigations.
The EPS follows Transport Canada regulations. Operation of the RPAS requires proper permits and pilot training. Flight plans must be filed to notify other pilots operating in the area.
The Major Collision Investigation Section now has fourteen officers fully trained to operate the RPAS.
EPS RPAS Facts:
- Operated by two Police Officers (pilot and spotter) and RPAS must be kept in sight at all times.
- Restricted by present Transport Canada Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) to an operational altitude of 300 ft. above ground level.
- Can remain in the air for approximately 45 minutes and has an effective control range of over 2000 ft.