LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department announced a major expansion of its drone program Thursday, deploying 75 drones across 13 skyports for near-instant response to calls for service.

Assistant Sheriff Dori Koren said the expanded program will focus primarily on violent incidents and supporting fire operations. The drones are piloted remotely by trained officers and civilian specialists under Federal Aviation Administration authorization.

WATCH: Assistant Sheriff Dori Koren shares more details about expansion on drone program Metro Police expands drone program with 75 units across 13 skyports for crime fighting

The skyports feature automatic charging, continuous coverage and secure mission data downloads with strict privacy and civil rights safeguards in place.

"We

See Full Page