Dash-Cam and Body-cam technology

BCSO deputies utilize the latest technology when it comes to in-car and body camera technology. Beginning in the early 1990s, Sheriff Berrong began placing dash-mounted camera systems in BCSO patrol vehicles. Those dash-mounted cameras, though not the best quality, proved to be an invaluable resource for documenting traffic stops and other officer-involved incidents. Over the years, dash-cam and body camera technology has vastly improved, and Sheriff Berrong assures deputies are outfitted with the latest models to assure transparency. In 2021, the BCSO began using the Axon Body Cam 3 system, and in 2022 all BCSO patrol cruisers were outfitted with the Axon Fleet 3 in-car camera system. This crystal clear imaging provides transparency and is a safeguard for the community and deputies alike.

Drone Technology

In 2016, Sheriff Berrong asked some of the BCSO I.T. professionals to look into drone technology – a new and emerging technology for law enforcement purposes. By 2017, Sheriff Berrong approved the purchase of two Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS), more commonly known as drones. One I.T. professional and one patrol deputy certified as drone operators, and the unit has grown over the years. Over the past nine years, Sheriff Berrong has made sure that the Sheriff’s Office has kept up with the latest in drone technology and the Sheriff’s Office has set a standard for its use, assuring that all local, state, and federal laws are followed in regard to its use.

These systems can provide a unique aerial perspective to law enforcement operations which are not otherwise available. The platform allows for the possible detection of dangers that might not otherwise be seen without endangering personnel, and can assist in locating missing or wanted persons. It also serves as an investigative tool in visual reconstruction of crime or crash scenes, as a damage assessment tool for disasters, and for observation of large-scale events. During 2024, three FAA licensed remote pilots flew a combined 173 flights, amassing over 35 hours of flight time during the year, and traveling in excess of 172 miles. The sUAS unit flew missions documenting three crash scenes, four fire scenes, and two crime scenes. Three missions were flown to assist in locating missing persons and ten missions to locate fugitives. Seventeen missions supported SWAT operations. Ten missions were for other patrol operations support, two for disaster drills, and three for public or school demonstrations. Eight flights were flown in Erwin, Tennessee during the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene. One fugitive was captured solely due to the thermal camera on the sUAS. Flights were also conducted in Anderson, Blount, Hamblen, Knox, Loudon, Sevier, and Unicoi counties.

Because of the expertise of our drone operators and the program’s longevity, the BCSO drone operators receive inquiries from law enforcement agencies from across the country on how to start their own programs.