Attachment C
2024/2025 Military Equipment Use Report
NEWPORT BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT
SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Dave Miner, Chief of Police
FROM: Justin Morouse, Lieutenant
DATE: August 13, 2026
SUBJECT: Annual Military Equipm ent Use Report (AB481) – 2024 & 2025
Background
On September 30, 2021, Governor Newsom approved Assembly Bill 4 81 (AB481). The bill requires law enforcement agencies to obtain approval from the applicable gov erning body (City Council), by adoption of a military equipment use policy, as specified by ordinance at a regular meeting prior to taking certain actions relating to the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment.
On June 28, 2022, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2022‐15, approving the Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) Military Equipm ent Use Policy and Inventory. AB481, and the Ordinance, mandates the police department to submit to the City Council an annual report of use for the specific military equipment the police department possesses. The current Inventory of Military Equipment possessed by the Newport Beach Police Department is included as Appendix A. There are minor changes listed (redline) on this inventory report which include a change in manufacturer for tear gas and flashbang grenades that are no longer available through the prior manufacturer.
The Military Equipment Use Policy is subject to City Council review to determine whether the standards set forth in AB 481 have been met, based upon this Annual Military Equipment Use Report. Finally, AB 481 requires publication of the Military Equipment Use Policy and the Annual Military Equipment Use Report on the department’s website.
Per AB 481, codified in Government Code Section 7072, et seq., the annual military equipment report shall include the following information for the immediately preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment:
(1) A summary of how the military equipment was used and the purpose of its use. (2) A summary of any complaints or concerns received concerning the military equipment. (3) The results of any internal audits, any information about violations of the military equipment use policy, and any actions taken in response.
(4) The total annual cost for each type of military equipment, including acquisition, personnel, training, transportation maintenance, storage, upgrade, and other ongoing costs, and from what source funds Military Equipment Use Report
August 13, 2026
will be provided for the military equipment in the calendar year following submission of the annual military equipment report.
(5) The quantity possessed for each type of military equipment. (6) If the law enforcement agency intends to acquire additional mil itary equipment in the next year, the quantity sought for each type of military equipment.
Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing an annual military equipment report pursuant to this section, the law enforcement agency shall hold at least one wel l publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which the general public may d iscuss and ask questions regarding the annual military equipment report and the law enforcements agenc y’s funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment.
Introduction
In an ongoing effort to promote public safety and transparency, this report details the utilization of military equipment by our department. These specialized tools are employe d t o a s s i s t l a w e n f o r c e m e n t i n c r i t i c a l situations, enabling a measured response that minimizes risk of injury to both the public and our officers. By outlining the types of equipment deployed and the contexts of their use, this report aims to foster transparency and understanding of how these resources contribute to a safer environment for all.
It is important to note that this report focuses on real‐world deployments of military equipment. The extensive training exercises conducted by our officers to ensure proficiency and safe use of this equipment are not captured within the scope of this document.
Summary of Military Equipment Usage
During the 2024 and 2025 calendar years, the Newport Beach Police Department recorded 99,093 and 92,975 calls‐for‐service respectively.
In 2024, there were 212 reportable use‐of‐force incidents. In 2025, there were 218 reportable use‐of‐force incidents. A vast majority of these uses of force were minor in nature.
I n M a r c h 2 0 2 5 , t h e N e w p o r t B e a c h P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t b e g a n p a t r o l‐led drone deployments as part of our Drone as First Responder (DFR) pr ogram, allowing trained pilots to deploy patrol‐vehicle housed drones from the field. In September 2025, the department transitioned to a full Drone as First Responder model, by introducing fixed‐location, fully autonomous drone flights supp orted by a full‐time DFR pilot. A summary of the department’s drone usage is detailed in the attached “Drone Program Annual Report 2025.”
The table on top of page three is a detailed list of the incide nts involving the use of all military equipment (other than drones).
Military Equipment Use Report
August 13, 2026
Complaints and Concerns
During the reporting period covered by this document, we are pleased to report that no complaints or concerns were registered by the public regarding the use of military equ ipment by our department. We maintain open channels of communication for community feedback, and this positive record reflects our commitment to responsible deployment of these resources in a manner that upholds public safety and trust.
Internal Audits
To ensure responsible use of military equipment, our department adheres to a strict policy outlining authorized applications and proper handling procedures. This report confir ms during the reporting period identified that no violations of this policy were discovered. This reinforces the effectiveness of our training programs and the commitment of our officers to following established protocols.
Inventory Costs and Quantities
A detailed breakdown of the current inventory of military equip ment, along with associated acquisition and ongoing costs, can be found in Appendix A of the Military Equipment Use Policy.
Date Military Equipment Used Call Description
* indicates “displayed only”
1/10/2024
Bearcat Armored Vehicle, Tear Gas Grenades, OC
Grenades, 40mm Projectiles, BearCat Armored
vehicle, SWAT Van, Sprinter Van, Robot, Rifles *
Arrest of an armed, barricaded suspect.
4/16/2024 BearCat Armored Vehic le, Rifle*, 40mm launcher* Robbery in Progress Barricade / Suspect Search
4/26/2024 40mm Launcher Resist Arrest w/Violence
6/28/2024 BearCat Armored Vehicle , Rifle* Dignitary Protection 6/29/2024 40mm Launcher Resist Arrest w/Violence
7/24/2024 Rifle *, 40mm Launcher* High‐risk Warrant Service, Homicide Inv. 8/13/2024 Rifle * Dignitary Protection
8/29/2024 Rifle * Dignitary Protection
10/30/2024 Rifle*, 40mm Launcher*, BearCat Armored
Vehicle, SWAT Van, Sprinter Van
Assisting Laguna Beach Police Department
with High Risk Warrant Service
12/5/2024 BearCat Armored Vehicle, Rifle*, 40mm
Launcher*
Assisting Costa Mesa PD with High Risk
Warrant Service
1/12/2025 40mm Launcher Resist Arrest w/Violence
3/5/2025 40mm Launcher, Pepperb all Resist Arrest w/Violence 5/3/2025 40mm Launcher Armed Burglary Suspect Arrest
5/4/2025 BearCat Armored Vehic le Orange County Marathon 7/10/2025 40mm Launcher Armed V ehicle Theft Suspect Arrest 8/9/2025 40mm Launcher Armed Trespass Suspect Arrest
Military Equipment Use Report
August 13, 2026
Outreach and Community Engagement
Our department is committed to fostering positive relationships with the community we serve through a variety of outreach and community engagement programs. These in itiatives, including Mobile Cafes, Citizens Academies, Teen Academies, and Shop with a Cop holiday programs, all aim to break down barriers, build trust, and promote transparency. Through these programs, we strive to create a stronger bond between the department and the public we serve. Upon renewal of this ordin ance, the Newport Beach Police Department will host a well‐publicized open meeting and invite the public to ask questions about the Military Equipment Use Policy.
Future Acquisitions
Looking ahead, we are excited to explore the potential of adding additional drones to our drone program. This technology has the potential to further enhance public safety b y assisting with search and rescue operations, and critical incident response. We are committed to implementin g any new program responsibly and with a focus on community safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this report aims to strengthen the bond between our department and the community we serve.
By fostering transparency around the use of military equipment, we hope to build on the already high levels of trust we share.
Attachments
Attachment A: NBPD Drone P rogram Annual Report 2025
Property of the Newport Beach Police Department | For Official Use Only
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DRONE PROGRAM
Annual Report 2025
Newport Beach Police Department
Property of the Newport Beach Police Department | For Official Use Only
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Table of Contents
Program Overview
Personnel and Training
Drone Infrastructure and Inventory
Operational Activity
Notable Deployments
2025 Milestones
2026 Projected Milestones
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1. Program Overview and Evolution
In March 2025, the Newport Beach Police Department began patrol -led drone deployments as the initial phase of the Drone as First Responder program. This model placed a trained pilot and a trunk -deployed drone in a marked patrol unit, allowing drones to be launched directly from the field in support of calls for service.
The patrol-led approach allowed drones to be deployed in close proximity to incidents, providing aerial support to help establish perimeters and locate persons or objects in question. Early use helped identify the types of calls where drones were most effective and clarified how aerial response could best support patrol operations. During this period, adjustments were made to deployment practices, coordination with responding officers, and training requirements. The drone team also assisted with select planned detective operations, provided drone support to neighboring agencies, and participated in joint SWAT training exercises.
Training and proficiency have remained a priority throughout program implementation.
The drone team conducts required quarterly training, and members have attended a range of drone and counter-drone related training courses to maintain proficiency and remain current with evolving tactics and technology.
In September 2025, the department transitioned to a full DFR 2.0 operational model.
This transition introduced fixed -location, fully autonomous drone deployments supported by a dedicated full-time DFR pilot. Under this model, drones are capable of autonomous launch and Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations in compliance with applicable FAA authorizations and department policy.
Rather than adopting a model that relied on rooftop visual observers, the department moved directly to DFR 2.0. This approach reduced staffing demands, improved system availability, and allowed for a more efficient and sustainable drone response capability. The transition from patrol-led mobile deployments to fixed-site autonomous operations established a solid foundation for continued growth and long -term integration of DFR into daily operations.
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2. Personnel and Training
Program Oversight:
* Lieutenant Brad Miller
Full-time Drone Pilot:
* Officer Jay Kim
Ancillary Drone Pilots:
* Officer Geren Anders
* Officer Brandon Boehme-Decew
* Officer Nickalis Carr
* Officer Adam Gilbert
* Officer Mark Hamilton
* Officer Brice Hardy
* Officer Miguel Sandoval
* Officer Aaron Sandoval
* Officer Jonathan Sunshine
* Officer Matthew Torres
All listed pilots hold current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificates and have completed manufacturer-provided training by BRINC. Training and currency are maintained through initial certification, recurrent training, and ongoing operational evaluations.
Current NBPD Standard Operating Procedures require each pilot to successfully complete in-house quarterly training. All pilots have completed Q4 2025 training and remain compliant with established SOP training standards.
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3. Drone Intrastation and Inventory
The department maintains five planned drone dock locations across the city. Three locations are currently operational, and two are pending installation.
Operational Drone Dock Locations
• NBPD Facility in Area 3
• Reservoir Site in Area 3
• Newport Coast Community Center in Area 4
Pending Drone Dock Installations
• Mariners Library in Area 2 (Projected installation timeline Q1 or Q2 2026) • City Yard in Area 2 (Projected installation timeline Q2 2026) The department currently has six BRINC Responder drones. Five are assigned to fixed drone dock locations, and one is configured for patrol-led mobile deployment.
In addition, the department maintains two BRINC Lemur drones designated for tactical operations and interior deployments.
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4. Operational Activity and Outcomes
From March 2025 through December 2025, the Drone as First Responder program supported 344 calls for service and logged approximately 126 flight hours, including training and operational deployments.
Key outcomes during the reporting period included:
• 233 incidents in which the drone arrived first on scene, providing responding officers with early situational awareness
• 35 assisted arrests where drone support contributed to successful enforcement actions
• 126 incidents in which patrol response was cancelled or reduced based on real-time aerial assessment
• 65 incidents in which the drone located the person in question prior to the arrival of responding patrol officers
• 21 incidents in which the drone located an object or vehicle in question prior to the arrival of responding patrol officers
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5. Notable Patrol-Led and DFR Deployments
1. September 28, 2025
NBPD 25006303
Officers Hamilton and Aaron Sandoval deployed a patrol backpack drone from Area 3 in response to a burglary in progress in Area 1. Acting as pilot and visual observer, they operated the drone into the incident area to assist with perimeter containment and clearing an open window, resulting in a burglary arrest.
2. October 1, 2025
Officer Sunshine assisted PCU West by deploying a patrol backpack drone in the Talbert Park area. The drone was able to fly over dense vegetation that would have been difficult to access by vehicle or on foot, locating a transient encampment believed to be connected to ongoing bicycle thefts and supporting follow-up investigation.
3. November 6, 2025
NBPD 25007263
A Flock alert indicated a stolen vehicle traveling southbound from the San Joaquin Hills area. A DFR drone was launched and located the vehicle parked at Fashion Island with the suspect nearby. Patrol units coordinated a response and later took the suspect into custody.
4. January 4, 2026
NBPD 26000070
A burglary in progress was reported in Area 4 after a reporting party observed three subjects on live CCTV at a residence under construction. Due to weather conditions, the HB-1 helicopter was unavailable. A DFR drone launched from a nearby dock arrived first on scene as the subjects exited the location. Patrol units arrived shortly after and took the subjects into custody.
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6. Issues Identified, Improvement Needed
1. Connectivity consistency and battery life were the most significant issues identified through the first year of the BRINC drone program. During DFR operations, the drone consistently lost cellular connection for short periods of time (2 seconds to 2 minutes) before reestablishing cellular connections.
2. Battery life for both DFR and patrol-led operations was found to be about 20 minutes. Recharging batteries took extended periods of time, often more than two hours.
3. RF towers installed at each of the three operational drone docks demonstrated poor performance and did not achieve their intended connectivity redundancy.
4. Camera quality underperformed, especially during night operations.
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7. 2025 Milestones
Q1 2025
1. Procured BRINC drone systems
2. Identified and surveyed five drone dock locations
3. Began coordination with general contractors for power and data infrastructure
4. Initiated recruitment and selection of drone pilots
Q2 2025
1. Secured city insurance coverage for drone operations
2. Began FAA Certificate of Waiver and Authorization coordination
3. Launched patrol-led drone deployments
4. Initiated installation of drone docks and supporting infrastructure
5. Drone pilots obtained FAA Part 107 certification
Q3 2025
1. Established the drone team Standard Operating Procedures
2. Achieved DFR operations at three of five planned dock locations
3. Provided department-wide patrol training on the drone program
4. Creation of BRINC LiveOps dashboard, allowing field personnel to livestream drone operations
5. Training operations with Fire Department & Life Guards, including the creation of LiveOps accounts to allow NBFD personnel access to independently view drone activity
Q4 2025
1. Received FAA authorization to operate within restricted airspace near John Wayne Airport
2. Established partnerships with the Air Marshals Service, FBI, and other agencies for drone, DFR, and counter-drone collaboration
3. Integration of LiveOps into the Fusus platform
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8. 2026 Projected Milestones
Q1 2026
1. Work with BRINC on a Guardian promotional video
2. Begin installation of drone dock stations 4 and 5
3. Conduct BRINC train-the-trainer instruction to allow internal pilot certification
4. Add an additional drone team member to support weekend DFR coverage
5. Execute an FBI Memorandum of Understanding for counter-drone operations and task force participation
Q2 2026
1. Achieve full operational status for all five DFR drone dock locations
2. Deploy a customized Ford F-150 configured as a mobile command post and patrol- ready drone deployment vehicle
Q3 2026
1. Participate in FBI counter-drone task force training pending seat availability
2. Deploy drones at approved locations to assist with fireworks mitigation during the Fourth of July period, subject to authorization and coordination
Q4 2026
1. To be determined