The Hattiesburg City Council will re-examine the purchase of drones

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) – Leaders in Hattiesburg will reconsider proposals to purchase drones for the city’s police department.

Earlier this year, several town hall meetings were held to discuss the proper way to use the technology.

While some people were in favor of it, others raised privacy concerns.

HPD Chief Hardy Sims said the department has taken steps to ensure officers are using the drones in the safest way possible.

“We understand there were some privacy concerns,” Sims said. “We have put policies in place, along with a citizen review board. They have revised that policy.

Once we have the drones in place, we will implement the policy and ensure the program works.”

Council members will vote on the issue on Tuesday.

If approved, Sims expects the drones to arrive in early 2025.

Sims added that the first set should cost about $50,000.

Want more WDAM 7 news in your inbox? Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.