Crime Solvers of Fairfax County (CSFC) proudly congratulates the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) on receiving national recognition for its innovative Drone as First Responder (DFR) program.
The National Association of Counties honored the DFR program with a 2026 Achievement Award and named it Best in Category for Criminal Justice and Public Safety—the organization’s highest distinction in that field. The award was presented during the National Association of Counties 2026 Annual Conference and Exposition in New Orleans on July 19, 2026.
Launched in September 2025, Fairfax County’s Drone as First Responder program has transformed emergency response by using drones to provide officers with real-time aerial intelligence before they arrive on scene. Operated through the Fairfax County Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), the program was the first in the National Capital Region to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorization to operate drones beyond visual line of sight in restricted airspace.
Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis emphasized the importance of the program, noting that innovative technology is helping officers, dispatchers, and public safety partners better serve the community while improving emergency response and providing first responders with critical information before they arrive.
Crime Solvers of Fairfax County applauds the members of the Real Time Crime Center, the Department of Public Safety Communications, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, and all of the public safety professionals whose collaboration made this achievement possible.
As a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting law enforcement and enhancing public safety through community partnerships, Crime Solvers of Fairfax County is proud to celebrate innovations that help protect our residents. Programs like the Drone as First Responder initiative demonstrate how technology, collaboration, and community support can work together to make Fairfax County an even safer place to live, work, and visit.
Congratulations to everyone involved in this outstanding national achievement.
