The drone purchased in 2024 by the Village of New Lexington is not only used by our fire department to track and/or detect hotspots, or by our police to track suspects, but it has become a tool in detecting water leaks in the village.
Late last year, the village faced a drop in water pressure across its main supply lines. Suspecting a leak, but unable to pinpoint its location, the village's public service department turned to the New Lexington Police Department to assist using the drone. Equipped with thermal imaging cameras, the drone's capabilities were used to scan the area for anomalies. In less than half an hour, the drone had detected a ruptured line, saving the public service department unnecessary digging and quickly restoring water pressure.
By demonstrating that police drones can be a tool for community welfare, the Village of New Lexington has set an example for other towns to follow. What began as a response to an infrastructure issue has turned into a showcase of innovation, proving that technology, when applied creatively, can address even the most unexpected challenges.