News

Police, Federal Officials Mull Drone Patrol for Railroads


BRUNSWICK, Maine (AP) Maine police and the Federal Railroad Administration are looking at setting up a drone patrol to monitor trespassers on railroad tracks.

The project, still in its infancy, involves the Brunswick Police Department. Brunswick is the current northern terminus point of Amtrak’s Downeaster service line. The Portland Press Herald reports it would be the first police department in the state to use drones to monitor potential crime.

State and federal officials say they will not be writing tickets if the camera-equipped quadcopters spot people on railroad property, as the drones will only be used for detection.

Police say they hope to have the program up and running by early summer 2018.

Latest Headlines

8 hours ago in Local

73-Year-Old Inmate at Mountain View Correctional Facility Dies

The Department of Corrections says his death was attended by medical personnel.

9 hours ago in Local

Suspicious Device Located During Traffic Stop in Newcastle

The device was secured and removed for further evaluation, including a laboratory analysis.

10 hours ago in Local

Man sues Maine State Police for violent treatment during arrest

A Limerick man is suing Maine State Police over accusations that troopers punched him while he was handcuffed after his arrest in March of 2024.

10 hours ago in Local

Fire officials identify 2 killed in Portland apartment fire

The Maine State Fire Marshal's Office has tentatively identified the two people who died in a fire at a Portland apartment complex over the weekend.

18 hours ago in Local

Bowdoin College is 5th Best in Country

The top two liberal arts colleges are both in Massachusetts