Louisville Police Drone Tracks Down Suspects Accused of Stealing $4,000 Air Conditioner Before Officers Arrive

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) successfully used its new drone technology to catch two suspects in real time allegedly stealing a $4,000 air conditioning unit — before officers even reached the scene.

The incident unfolded just before 10 p.m. Thursday after police received a report of two people stealing an air conditioning unit from a home on Glendora Avenue, near 43rd and Herman Streets, not far from Shawnee Park.

Drone Team Spots Suspects and Truck in Real Time

According to LMPD officials, the department’s drone operators quickly deployed the aerial unit to the area, where it located two suspects and a pickup truck parked close to the reported address.

The live footage allowed responding officers to intercept the suspects before they fled, leading to the arrest of Daniel Forbes and Destiny Walton.

Both individuals were charged with felony theft and criminal mischief following the incident.

Stolen Items and Property Damage Discovered

Police said the air conditioning unit was severely damaged and appeared to have been dismantled for scrap metal. Officers also discovered metal road signs and copper wire inside the suspects’ truck, suggesting additional theft activity.

LMPD noted that the case highlights how the department’s new drone program can assist in rapid suspect identification and capture, reducing response times and increasing officer safety during property crime investigations.

As the Louisville Metro Police continues expanding its drone surveillance program, officials say the technology is already proving valuable in tracking property crimes and assisting real-time patrols. For more updates on public safety and community policing across Kentucky, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.