Law enforcement across the state of Ohio now has access to enhanced aviation downlink technology. The new technology allows Ohio State Highway Patrol’s (OSHP) Aviation Unit to transmit live feeds of aerial video footage to command staff on the ground during active, evolving criminal investigations and emergencies.
“This technology virtually puts the on-ground incident commander up in the sky with our Ohio State Highway Patrol team, giving them broader perspectives of active scenes and more information to help make critical public safety decisions,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “Before now, local law enforcement relied on the Patrol to describe aerial views via radio, but giving them the ability to see the scene with their own eyes is so much more effective.”
Previously, the capability was only available to local law enforcement in the areas surrounding Columbus and Akron. However, with nine strategically placed downlink receivers, it is now possible to transmit aerial video from anywhere in the state. With the upgrade complete, any agency with internet access and the correct credentials can view the live stream in real time on a phone, tablet, or desktop computer.
“The expansion of the downlink program represents an advancement in our collaborative public safety efforts,” said OSHP Superintendent Col. Charles A. Jones. “Providing real-time aerial footage directly to our law enforcement partners enhances situational awareness, speeds response times and supports informed decisions to protect our communities.”
The state said that on average, OSHP’s Aviation Unit responds to more than 1,000 calls for support each year. Missions include violent crime reduction initiatives, criminal suspect searches, missing person searches, storm damage assessments, and vehicle pursuit mitigation.
“Many of Ohio’s law enforcement agencies, especially in the rural parts of the state, don’t have aviation capabilities,” said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson. “This incredible asset provides a valuable resource to help those agencies fight crime and protect the public.”
The technology expansion was funded via state and Federal funds awarded through the Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program. The state explained that the use of the expanded downlink technology will support work to reduce violent crime by increasing the likelihood of violent offender apprehensions and deterring future acts of violence.
The governor’s office said they believe Ohio is only the second state in the country capable of downlinking live aerial video anywhere within its state lines.
