Drones Deployed to Track and Apprehend Shoplifters on Private Property

Shoplifters Could Soon Be Chased Down by Drones In a move that could revolutionize retail security, Flock Safety announced today that its drones are now available for private-sector use. The company's drone docking stations can be placed on premises, allowing businesses to track and apprehend shoplifters with unprecedented ease. According to Keith Kauffman, former police chief and director of Flock Safety's drone program, the system works by activating a drone equipped with cameras from its docking station on the roof. "If our security team sees shoplifters leave the store," Kauffman explained, "they can click a button to activate the drone, which will follow the individuals as they get into a car." The drone's video feed is then transmitted to the company's control center. Flock Safety's drones were previously reserved for police departments but are now being marketed to businesses looking to curb shoplifting. Companies in the US can place the docking stations on their premises and, with a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly beyond visual line of sight, deploy the drones within a certain radius. The market for retail security is expected to grow significantly as businesses seek innovative solutions to combat rising shoplifting rates. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global retail security market was valued at $14.6 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $25.8 billion by 2027. Flock Safety's drones are not only a response to the growing problem of shoplifting but also an example of how technology can be leveraged to improve business operations. "We're seeing more companies invest in technology that helps them prevent losses and improve customer experience," said Kauffman. While some experts have raised concerns about the potential for abuse or misuse of drones, Flock Safety's system is designed with safety and security in mind. The company has implemented strict protocols to ensure that drones are only deployed in situations where there is a clear threat to property or person. As the retail industry continues to grapple with the challenges posed by shoplifting, Flock Safety's drone technology offers a promising solution. With its ability to track and apprehend suspects in real-time, the system has the potential to significantly reduce losses for businesses and improve public safety. Flock Safety plans to continue expanding its drone program to meet growing demand from private-sector customers. The company is also working with law enforcement agencies to develop best practices for deploying drones in retail settings. Background Shoplifting costs retailers an estimated $30 billion annually, according to the National Retail Federation. As businesses seek innovative solutions to combat this problem, Flock Safety's drone technology offers a cutting-edge approach. Additional Perspectives Industry experts note that while Flock Safety's drones offer a promising solution, they also raise important questions about privacy and surveillance. "We need to be careful not to create a culture of suspicion where people feel like they're being watched all the time," said one expert. Current Status and Next Developments Flock Safety is currently working with several major retailers to deploy its drone technology in pilot programs. The company plans to continue expanding its program in the coming months as it works to meet growing demand from private-sector customers. *Reporting by Technologyreview.*