GLADSTONE — A local law enforcement agency is seeking donations and/or grants to purchase a new drone.

Gladstone Public Safety Officer Leif Sjoquist is looking to add a Brinch Lemur 2 drone to the department.

“As an officer with the Gladstone Public Safety and a licensed unmanned aircraft pilot, I am acutely aware of the pressing need for advanced technology to address critical instances, such as active shooter situations, and other emergencies,” Sjoquist said in a letter.

He addressed the need for such equipment, pointing to several incidents in which drones were crucial to assisting law enforcement.

He pointed to nine incidents in 2024 alone where a drone-assisted.

Of those incidents, drones helped find a group of fishermen who fell through ice at Little Bay De Noc in February, located a missing dementia patient in May, and located an escaped inmate in July.

While the current drone was helpful in those situations, Sjoquist said the new drone will be even more useful and vital in emergency situations.

By adding the Brinch Lemur 2 to its arsenal, the department hopes to improve its drone optics.

The drone is a stark improvement over the DJI Mavic 3, which is the most commonly used drone by local law enforcement including the Gladstone Department of Public Safety.

He said the current drone is great for recreational use such as aerial photography, but Brinch Lemur 2 is more optimal for law enforcement agencies.

“It’s (the current drone) great for observing, but that’s about as much as it can do,” he explained.

Sjoquist explained the potential new drone’s specs, such as its real-time live feed, two-way communication, and LiDAR live mapping.

The two-way communication feature allows law enforcement to communicate with individuals on the ground, a vital component when relaying instructions.

The mapping feature gives law enforcement the tools to create a detailed, 3-D map of a structure’s interior, allowing officials to navigate and assess the layout of a building during an emergency situation.

The Brinc Lemur 2 is also equipped with a built-in glass breaker and drop hook, features that allow access to restricted areas and allow for the delivery of supplies as needed.

“For example, bringing life jackets or ice picks to victims on the water, or even deliver(ing) Narcan to an overdose victim,” Sjoquist explained.

A vital feature of the drone is its ability to be just as valuable inside as outside.

Sjoquist explained that most drones rely solely on GPS, whereas the Brinc Lemur 2 can utilize radio and cellular communication to ensure high performance and reliability during emergency situations.

He noted that the drone is manufactured in the United States. In contrast, many drones, including active ones in Delta County, are made in China.

“This is particularly relevant as current legislative pressure is pushing for the prohibition of Chinese-made drones for government use. Should such a ban be enacted, most, if not all, of the drones currently used in Delta County could become unusable,” he explained.

Should the department acquire the new drone, it will be housed in Gladstone. However, it may be utilized throughout the county for critical incidents.

The department is looking to raise $20,000 for the purchase, which will cover the cost of the unit and associated equipment, lifetime service, repair, support, replacements, and upgrades.

He explained the drone could be lost in the lake and the company would replace it.

Sjoquist is solely relying on donations and/or grants for the drone as the recently approved special assessment only pays for specific equipment and does not include drone technology.

He is seeking donations throughout the county, as the drone will benefit the entire community, not just Gladstone.

So, far the fundraising has reached $3,000 and counting.

Those looking to donate may contact public safety at 906 428 3131, stop by the department or send a check to the agency located at 144 4th Avenue North in Gladstone.

Sjoquist wanted to thank those who already donated and said he appreciates all of the community’s support.