LCPD Adds Lifesaving Addition to Unmanned Aircraft System Program

Published on July 08, 2026

The La Crosse Police Department is expanding its Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Program with a lifesaving addition: drone-deployed Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs). Designed to enhance our water emergency response if needed, this technology allows officers to provide a direct, life-saving flotation to individuals in distress. 

The Personal Flotation Device can be carried by officers, thrown from shore, or deployed directly from a department drone to a person in distress and automatically inflates upon contact with the water. “Our goal is to provide lifesaving equipment to a person in distress as quickly as possible. In many water emergencies, every second matters. This new device provides valuable time until the department’s Boat Patrol and other emergency responders arrive,” La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron

The addition of this technology allows officers to safely reach areas that may be difficult or dangerous to access from shore and provides another tool to improve rescue efforts on the Mississippi River and other waterways throughout the City of La Crosse.

The La Crosse Police Department remains committed to evaluating and implementing technology that enhances public safety, improves emergency response, and provides the highest level of service to our community.