Fairfax County, VA – The Fairfax County Police Department’s (FCPD) Drone as First Responder (DFR) program was recognized by the National Association of Counties (NACo) with a 2026 Achievement Award and selected as Best in Category for Criminal Justice and Public Safety, the organization’s highest honor within the category.
The Best in Category distinction recognizes outstanding county government programs throughout the nation. The award was presented during NACo’s 2026 Annual Conference and Exposition in New Orleans on July 19.
Launched in September 2025, the DFR program is a strategic, community-centered initiative that enhances emergency response through rapid aerial deployment. Operated through the FCPD’s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), the program became the first jurisdiction in the National Capital Region to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorization to operate drones beyond visual line of sight in restricted airspace.
The recognition highlights the department’s innovative approach to integrating drone technology into emergency response while emphasizing transparency, community engagement, and responsible deployment. Drones are typically deployed in less than two minutes and arrive first on scene to approximately 70% of incidents they respond to, providing officers with real-time aerial situational awareness before they arrive. The program supports a variety of critical incidents, including missing persons, fleeing suspects, crash scenes, fire and medical emergencies, traffic incidents, felony arrest support, and other calls where aerial awareness can support a faster and safer response.
“The Drone as First Responder program is another example of how innovative technology is helping us better serve our community,” said Chief Kevin Davis. “By combining cutting-edge technology with the expertise of our officers, dispatchers, and public safety partners, we’re improving emergency response, strengthening public safety, and providing our first responders with the information they need to make better decisions.”
Since its launch, the program has continued to expand. Most recently, the RTCC integrated artificial intelligence technology that evaluates 911 calls in real time, allowing DFR deployments more quickly while dispatchers continue gathering critical information. The expansion also included the permanent assignment of Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department personnel to the RTCC, further strengthening coordination among public safety partners.
“This recognition is a testament to the teamwork, innovation, and dedication that define Fairfax County’s public safety community. By working together across agencies and embracing new technology, we are improving emergency response and delivering better outcomes for our residents. We’re proud that this collaborative approach continues to serve as a model for communities across the country. It was an honor to accept this award on behalf of the hardworking men and women across Fairfax County’s public safety agencies who made this achievement possible,” said Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay.
Congratulations to the members of the RTCC, the Department of Public Safety Communications, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, and all of our public safety partners whose dedication and collaboration made this national recognition possible.
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