Rancho Palos Verdes City Council
August 18, 2026

CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 08/18/2026
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA TITLE:

Consider an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Drone Program for the Lomita Sheriff’s Station.

RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
1) Approve participating in the proposed Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Drone Program to be implemented by the Lomita Sheriff’s Station; and 2) Authorize the Mayor to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Cities of Rancho Palos Verdes, Lomita, Rolling Hills Estates, and Rolling Hills to fund the procurement of four UAS Drones for the Lomita Sheriff’s Station based on a cost share formula in the first operating year.

FISCAL IMPACT: The cost to fund the purchase of four drones is $76,000. Since the drones will be shared among the four cities served by the Lomita Sheriff’s Station, a cost share formula was developed based on population. By using this formula, the City’s cost share is $48,488 which includes a 10% operational and maintenance reserve.

Sufficient funds are budgeted for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27. VR Amount Budgeted: $55,000
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): 101-400-6111-6104
(General Fund – Public Safety - Risk/Safety Activities) VR ORIGINATED BY: Jennifer Schmid, Public Safety Manager Js REVIEWED BY: Catherine Jun, Deputy City Manager CJ
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:

A. Proposed MOU for the UAS Drone Program (page A-1)
B. DSLR Pros Intelligent Drone Solutions Quote (page B-1) C. Lomita Sheriff Station UAS Proposal Memorandum (page C-1) D. LASD Manual of Policy and Procedures for UAS Operations (page D-1) 1 CITYOF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
BACKGROUND:

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Lomita Sheriff’s Station is proposing to implement a UAS Drone Program (Drone Program) within the four Palos Verdes Peninsula cities that it serves. Those four cities include Rancho Palos Verdes, Lomita, Rolling Hills, and Rolling Hills Estates, whose roles would be limited to providing funding for the drones. Upon procuring the drones, the Lomita Sheriff’s Station would be solely responsible for operating and managing the Drone Program according to all LASD drone policies and procedures (Attachment D), with the primary goal of enhancing regional law enforcement capabilities and improving public safety services across all four cities.

The proposed Drone Program was first introduced to the Regional Contract Law Committee (RCLC) by Lomita Sheriff’s Station Captain Kimberly Guerrero during a November 13, 2025 meeting where the RCLC requested staff to develop and return with a funding approach for the program.

On June 4, 2026, the RCLC reviewed and approved a cost-sharing model between the Cities of Rancho Palos Verdes, Lomita, Rolling Hills Estates, and Rolling Hills that is based on each City’s population size. The RCLC also directed staff to present a MOU to each participating City Council for consideration, authorizing participation in the Drone Program and funding the procurement of the necessary equipment.

On July 7, 2026, staff presented the Drone Program to the City Council for review and consideration. Following discussion, the City Council directed staff to return on July 21, 2026 with additional information regarding LASD’s drone operating guidelines and policies, liability considerations, and the measures in place to address any concerns regarding the public’s privacy and constitutional rights.

On July 21, 2026, staff requested that City Council continue its review of the proposed Drone Program to a future meeting, because additional time was needed to gather and review information requested by City Council.

Over the past month, Staff has gathered the additional information requested and presented it to staff representatives from the four participating cities on August 6. At that time, they recommended amending the proposed MOU to include all pertinent information that clarifies the Drone Program’s operational guidelines and policies, liability, and privacy measures and presenting it to their respective City Councils for consideration. That information is discussed below for consideration this evening.

DISCUSSION:

Drone Types and Uses
LASD’s Manual of Policy and Procedures (Manual) (Attachment D) establishes department-wide guidelines for the use of drones that are regulated under the Federal 2 Aviation Administration (FAA). The Manual, which has been vetted by County Counsel and applies to all LASD drone programs states:
“UAS can serve as a valuable resource to increase community and officer safety, act as a valuable de-escalation tool, reduce response times, provide situational awareness, and support personnel in the course of their duties, including the accurate reconstruction of complex traffic crashes and crime scenes.” To assist in this effort, drone deployments may only be conducted by trained and certified personnel with the oversight of a Flight Supervisor or the UAS Operations Unit, and all drone operators must be FAA-certified and complete LASD drone training.

Drones may be deployed in response to calls for service and other incident-based operations when authorized by appropriate supervisory personnel, such as the Station’s Watch Commander, and when deployment criteria are met (Attachment D). Authorized uses may include:
• Crime and traffic collision investigations and documentation; • Tactical operations and assessments;
• Search and rescue missions;
• Real-time crime scene awareness;
• Surveillance during exigent circumstances: and,
• other approved operations.

Drones are not typically deployed for routine active patrol or general monitoring, and all deployments must comply with applicable laws, FAA regulations, and LASD UAS policies and procedures. Lastly, all deployments are documented and reported in accordance with Department policy.

The MOU has been amended under Section 9A to clarify that UAS deployment and mission selection remain under LASD’s exclusive authority and must be conducted in accordance with LASD policy (Attachment D). The policy identifies authorized uses, including crime scene awareness and documentation, traffic collision documentation, tactical assessments, search and rescue operations, and other approved law enforcement activities.

Privacy Considerations
Privacy protections have also been incorporated into the policy and procedures of the Drone Program. As identified in LASD’s Manual:
“All Department UAS deployments shall be conducted in a manner that is consistent with the requirements and protections of the United States Constitution and the California State Constitution, and pursuant to all applicable laws and regulations.”
3 These laws and regulations help ensure that drones are lawfully deployed and in keeping with similar technology or other longstanding public safety tools that have been deployed by LASD. The legal standards that apply to the UAS Drone Program operations are consistent with those that govern other aerial law enforcement resources, including LASD helicopters. Whether utilizing a helicopter or a drone, LASD must conduct operations in compliance with constitutional protections, including privacy rights and search and seizure requirements. The UAS Drone Program does not expand law enforcement authority or create new investigative powers; rather, it provides an additional aerial tool that must be used within the same legal framework that governs existing LASD operations.

To protect individual privacy, UAS operators are required to take reasonable precautions to avoid capturing images of areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, while still allowing flexibility to respond effectively during emergencies. While privacy protections remain a fundamental component of the program, operational decisions cannot be entirely determined, as emergency and rapidly evolving incidents may require the use of a drone in circumstances where flexibility is necessary to protect life, preserve property, or support public safety. Should LASD make any revisions to its UAS Policy that affect the operation or use of the Drone Program, City staff will return to the City Council to provide an update for Council’s awareness and review.

The MOU (Attachment A) has been amended under Section 9A to expressly require that all UAS operations comply with LASD’s Manual of Policies and Procedures 5-09/570.15 (Attachment D), as well as all applicable laws. The Manual of Policies and Procedures is attached as Exhibit B of the MOU (Attachment A). The Manual requires UAS deployments to comply with the U.S. Constitution and establishes safeguards intended to minimize the recording of areas where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Ownership and Liability
If the MOU is approved by the City Councils of all four participating cities, funding for the drones will be donated to the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Employee Fund, which will then procure and deliver the drones to the Station. Upon acceptance by the County of Los Angeles, the UAS equipment will become the sole property of the County and will be assigned to Lomita Sheriff’s Station for official law enforcement purposes. The participating cities will retain no ownership interest or operational authority over the equipment and will not be involved in its deployment, supervision, maintenance, storage, or operation. LASD will have exclusive responsibility for the use and oversight of the UAS Drone Program, including liability associated with accidents, property damage, or other claims arising from its operation. The arrangement does not create a joint exercise of powers or joint operational responsibility among the participating cities and LASD (Attachment C).

Furthermore, similar to other LASD resources, such as patrol vehicles and helicopters, LASD is responsible for the operation, oversight and liability of claims arising from its personnel acting within the scope of their duties. While any public agency may be named 4 in litigation, operational responsibility and legal defense related to the use of the UAS drone would be managed solely by LASD.

This information has been incorporated into the MOU under Recital D and Section 9A to clarify that the drones are the sole property of LASD and are assigned to the Lomita Sheriff’s Station (Attachment A). LASD retains exclusive authority over their deployment, operation, maintenance, storage, training, supervision, FAA compliance, mission selection, and data management. To further reinforce this authority, LASD’s Memo (Attachment C) is referenced in the MOU, as Exhibit C, and establishes County ownership and liability over the drones. The Memo also references the LASD Manual of Policies and Procedures (Attachment D), which sets forth the requirements governing UAS operations and authorized deployments.

MOU and Program Cost Share
The MOU proposes to fund four drones for a total cost of $76,000 (Attachment B). In summary, the proposed equipment includes the following:

• One (1) long-range drone for larger scale incidents and special events (stationed at Lomita Sheriff’s Station).
• Two (2) daily-use drones for routine calls for service (in a trained deputy vehicle) • One (1) interior drone for critical incidents (i.e. barricaded suspects or unsafe structures and stationed at Lomita Sheriff’s Station).
• A two-year warranty for each drone covering:
• Accidental damage from pilot error, collisions, drops, water exposure, signal interference, and internal malfunctions.
• One replacement drone during the coverage term that may be new or refurbished. If product is unavailable, the vendor will provide a product with similar capability.
• NOT Covered: Intentional misuse, modifications, loss or theft, cosmetic wear, propellers or batteries, or operation outside manufacturer guidelines.

To support the Drone Program, Lomita Sheriff’s Station is seeking funding support based on a proportional cost-sharing arrangement among the participating four cities served by the Lomita Sheriff Station for the initial acquisition and implementation of UAS equipment and related program startup costs.

Per the MOU, the Drone Program costs will be allocated among the four participating cities based on a population-based percentage distribution. This approach is being used, in the absence of program-specific drone usage data which is not yet available for each city. Once that data is available after the first year of the Program, all four participating cities may consider a different cost-share formula that is based on usage as opposed to population.

At this time, however, the total one-time cost for acquisition, initial implementation, and warranty coverage for the UAS Drone Program is $76,000. Based on population, Rancho Palos Verdes (as the largest city) is responsible for paying $44,080, which has been 5 included in the Adopted FY 2026-27 Operating Budget. The proposed cost-sharing formula for all four participating cities is as follows:

COST ALLOCATION FORMULA $76,000
City Population Percentage Cost Share
City of Rancho Palos
Verdes 41,000 58% $44,080
City of Lomita 20,000 28% $21,280
City of Rolling Hills Estates 8,545 12% $9,120
City of Rolling Hills 1,500 2% $1,520
As noted in the MOU (Attachment A), the Drone Program will be implemented during the first year using the cost-sharing formula described above. During that period, Lomita Sheriff’s Station will collect data on program usage in each participating city, along with other relevant information. At the end of the first year, the cost-sharing structure will be reviewed and may be adjusted based on actual program usage to ensure an equitable distribution of costs and continued program efficiency.

In addition to the initial one-time cost identified in the MOU, each participating city will be responsible for its proportional share of ongoing costs for maintenance, repair, and replacement of UAS equipment not covered under warranty. These costs are estimated at up to 10% of the initial equipment cost annually and would only be incurred as maintenance, repair, or replacement becomes necessary. Because these expenses fall outside the scope of the MOU, they will be treated as ongoing operations and maintenance costs and incorporated into each participating city’s annual operating budget. Staff has included approximately $4,408 (10% of the $44,080 City’s cost share) to reserve funding for these anticipated costs in the FY 2026-27 operating budget.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

As outlined in the attached MOU, participating cities will collect and evaluate operational data during the first year of the Drone Program. This information will be used to assess program utilization, evaluate the cost sharing model among the participating jurisdictions based on usage, and identify opportunities for program improvements.

The data collected is anticipated to include:
• Call for service
• Response time and action
• UAS Drone utilized
• Narrative of incident
6 As the Drone Program is implemented and the technology becomes operational, these performance measures may be refined or expanded based on the capabilities of the UAS system and the data available. This approach will allow participating agencies to ensure accurate performance reporting while supporting future program evaluation and costsharing discussions.

Upon direction from the RCLC, staff from the other three cities will take the attached MOU to their respective city councils for approval if City Council approves tonight’s item to participate in the Drone Program. It should be noted that the cities of Lomita and Rolling Hills Estates approved the original MOU and will take the amended MOU for their council’s consideration.

CONCLUSION:

The City Council is requested to approve participation in the proposed UAS Drone Program that will be solely implemented and managed by the Lomita Sheriff’s Station.

City Council is also requested to authorize the Mayor to execute an MOU with all four participating cities to procure and share the costs for four drones in the initial operating year of the UAS Drone Program.

ALTERNATIVES:

The following alternative actions are available for the City Council’s consideration:

1. Do not approve one or more recommendations and direct staff accordingly, which may include requests to return with additional information or updates.

2. Do not authorize participating in the Drone Program.

3. Request additional information be included in the attached MOU.

4. Take other action.
7 1

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN

THE CITIES OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, LOMITA,

ROLLING HILLS ESTATES, AND ROLLING HILLS

RELATING TO PROCUREMENT OF UNMANNED

AERIAL SYSTEM (UAS) DRONES FOR THE LOMITA
SHERIFF’S STATION
THIS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (“MOU”) is effective as of , 2026, between the CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, a general law city & municipal corporation (“Rancho Palos Verdes”), the CITY OF LOMITA, a general law city & municipal corporation (“Lomita”), the CITY OF ROLLING HILLS ESTATES, a general law city & municipal corporation (“Rolling Hills Estates”), and the CITY OF ROLLING HILLS, a municipal corporation (“Rolling Hills”). Each of the foregoing cities may be referred to individually as a “Member” and collectively as the “Members.”

RECITALS
A. The cities of Rancho Palos Verdes, Lomita, Rolling Hills Estates, and Rolling Hills (collectively, “Members”) are located in the South Bay region and contract with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Lomita Station, for law enforcement services.

B. The Members have determined that the implementation of an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Drone Program (“Drone Program”) is a vital public safety tool to enhance situational awareness, support emergency response, and improve law enforcement service delivery across the Members cities.

C. The Drone Program will utilize trained Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Lomita Station personnel to operate the UAS Drones. This includes, but is not limited to, emergency response, search and rescue, disaster assessment, and event management. Deployment and use of UAS Drones will be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws, FAA regulations, and LASD policies.

D. The Members have coordinated with the Lomita Sheriff’s Station command staff, including the Captain, Sergeants and Deputies, who will oversee and administer the Drone Program. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department shall have sole and exclusive authority for the ownership, operation, deployment, maintenance, training, supervision, FAA compliance, mission selection, data collection, retention, and use of all unmanned aircraft systems operated pursuant to this Agreement. Such authority is outlined and will be carried out in accordance with LASD’s Manual of Policy and Procedures 5-09/570.15 (Exhibit B) and the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Memorandum on the UAS Program, dated July 7, 2026 (Exhibit C).

E. The Members agree that the procurement of UAS Drone equipment will be facilitated through the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Employee Fund, which will purchase the drones and associated equipment on behalf of the participating agencies.

F. Each Member agrees to contribute its proportional share of the initial acquisition cost as determined by the agreed-upon cost allocation formula outlined in Section 4 (b.) directly to the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Employee Fund.

G. In addition to the initial one-time cost outlined in this Memorandum of A-1
2 Understanding, each participating member shall be responsible for budgeting and funding ongoing annual equipment maintenance, repair, and replacement costs estimated at approximately 10% of the initial UAS Drone equipment cost allocated to each respective

AGREEMENT
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises, terms, conditions and covenants contained herein, the Members agree as follows:

1. Recitals Incorporated. The recitals are incorporated by reference and made a part of this MOU, as are the attached exhibits.

2. Purposes. The purpose of this MOU is to establish a framework among the Members to fund a shared UAS Drone Program in partnership with Lomita Sheriff’s Station for enhanced public safety services.

3. Initiation and Term.
(a) Initiation of MOU. Upon approval of the MOU by all four (4) Member agencies, this MOU will become effective.
(b) Term. The MOU will remain in effect from the Effective Date until amended in accordance with Section 9 or terminated in accordance with Section 8.

4. Duties of All Members. The Members agree:
(a) Payment. The total one-time cost for the UAS Drone equipment acquisition and associated startup shall be $76,000, to be paid by the Members in accordance with the cost allocation formula outlined below. The percentages to be paid by each Member under the Cost Allocation Formula (“Formula”) are as follows:
(b)
COST ALLOCATION FORMULA: $76,000
Member Population Percentage Cost Share
City of Rancho Palos Verdes 41,000 58% $44,080
City of Lomita 20,000 28% $21,280
City of Rolling Hills Estates 8,500 12% $9,120
City of Rolling Hills 1,681 2% $1,520
(c) The Lomita Sheriff’s Station Employee Fund shall facilitate the purchase of all UAS Drone equipment on behalf of the Members.
(d) Each Member shall remit its proportional share of the cost as specified in the Cost Allocation Formula directly to the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Employee Fund.

A-2
3 (e) In addition to the initial one-time cost outlined in this Memorandum of Understanding, each participating member shall be responsible for budgeting and funding ongoing annual equipment maintenance, repair, and replacement costs estimated at approximately 10% of the initial UAS Drone equipment cost allocated to each respective city.

5. Obligation for Debts and Liabilities.
(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided in this MOU, no Member will be individually responsible for any of the debts, liabilities or obligations of any other Member. (b) This MOU does not create any legal entity under the Joint Exercise of Powers Act (Govt. Code Sec. 6500 et. seq.) or any other law, which would authorize the execution of contracts, provide the right to sue or be sued, or which would otherwise create a separate legal entity under the laws of California. Instead, this MOU establishes a mutual understanding to carry out a project beneficial to existing governmental entities to promote public health and safety.

6. Indemnification.
(a) Generally. Each Member agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless each other Member, including its elected and appointed officers, employees, agents, attorneys, and designated volunteers from and against any and all liability, including, but not limited to demands, claims, actions, fees, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorney’s and expert witness fees), arising from or connected with the respective acts of each Member arising from or related to this MOU; provided, however, that no Member is obligated to indemnify another Member for that Member’s own negligence or willful misconduct.
(b) Government Code Section 895.2. In light of the provisions of California Government Code section 895.2 imposing certain tort liability jointly upon public entities solely by reason of such entities being Members to an agreement (as defined in Section 895 of the Government Code), each of the Members, pursuant to the authorization contained in Government Code sections 895.4 and 895.6, agrees to assume the full liability imposed upon it or any of its officers, agents, or employees, by law for injury caused by any act or omission occurring in the performance of this MOU to the same extent such liability would be imposed in the absence of Government Code section 895.2 . To achieve the above stated purpose, each Member agrees to indemnify, defend, and holds harmless each other Member for any liability, cost, or expense that may be imposed upon such other Member solely by virtue of Government Code section 895.2. The provisions of Section 2778 of the California Civil Code are made a part of this MOU as if incorporated herein.
(c) Privileges and Immunities. All of the privileges and immunities from liability, exemptions from laws, ordinances, and rules, all pension, relief, disability, worker’s compensation, and other benefits which apply to the activity of officers, agents, or employees of any Member when performing their respective functions within the territorial limits of the Member, will apply to them to the same degree and extent while engaged in the performance on any of their functions and duties extraterritorially under this MOU.

7. Disputes. Each Member will have a reasonable opportunity to assert matters which it believes have not been undertaken in accordance with the MOU, to explain the basis for such assertion, and to receive from the other Member a justification of its position on such matters. If, A-3
4 on the basis of the Members’ review of any terms of the MOU, any Member concludes that another Member has not complied in good faith with the terms of the MOU, then such Member may issue a written “Notice of Non-Compliance” specifying the grounds therefore and all facts demonstrating such non-compliance, which Notice will be served on the alleged noncompliant Member along with all other Members. The alleged noncompliant Member will have 30 days to cure or remedy the non-compliance identified in the Notice of Noncompliance, or if such cure or remedy is not reasonably capable of being cured or remedied within such 30-day period, to commence to cure or remedy the non-compliance and to diligently and in good faith prosecute such cure or remedy to completion. If the Member receiving the Notice of Non-Compliance does not believe it is out of compliance and contests the Notice, it may do so by responding in writing to the Notice within 30 days after receipt of the Notice. The Notice of Non-Compliance, and any response thereto, must be sent to all Members. If the response to the Notice of Non-Compliance has not been received in the offices of the Member alleging the non-compliance within the prescribed time period, the Notice of Non-Compliance will be conclusively presumed to be valid.

If a Notice of Non-Compliance is contested, the Members will, for a period of not less than 30 days following receipt of the response, seek to arrive at a mutually acceptable resolution of the matter(s) occasioning the Notice. The City of Rancho Palos Verdes, the Lead Agency for the purposes of this MOU, will notify in writing all Members within 15 days of any Member failing to cure an alleged non-compliance with the terms or conditions of this MOU. The compliant Members will determine the next course of action, which may include the termination of a Member’s participation in the MOU.

8. Termination and Withdrawal.
(a) Termination of MOU. This MOU may be terminated upon the express written agreement of all Members. If this MOU is terminated all existing costs must be paid with all Members paying their proportionate share in accordance with the Formula. (b) Withdrawal. If a Member wishes to withdraw from this MOU for any reason, that Member must give the other Members prior written notice thereof. The effective date of withdrawal will be 60-days after the Members receive written notice of a Member’s intent to withdraw. Should any Member withdraw from this MOU, the remaining Members’ cost share allocation, if any remain, will be adjusted in accordance with the cost allocation formula in Exhibit A.

9. General Provisions.
(a) Implementation. The Members acknowledge that this Drone Program is exclusively owned and implemented by authorized LASD personnel. Upon acceptance by the Lomita Sheriff’s Station, the donated UAS Drones become the sole property of LASD and are assigned to the Lomita Sheriff’s Station for official law enforcement purposes. LASD shall have exclusive authority regarding deployment, operation, maintenance, storage, supervision, and use of the equipment in accordance with LASD’s Manual of Policy and Procedures 5-09/570.15 (Exhibit B) and the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Memorandum (Exhibit C).

The donor cities retain no ownership or interest, possess no authority or liability over the operation of the equipment, and do not participate in the deployment, supervision, maintenance, or operation of the UAS program. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as creating a joint exercise of powers or joint operational responsibility for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems.

A-4
5 (b) Ongoing Review. The Members agree that this MOU and associated cost allocations shall be reviewed annually and may be adjusted based on actual program usage, operational needs, data provided by Lomita Sheriff’s Station, and other considerations as deemed necessary by the Members.
(c) Cooperation. The Members agree to fully cooperate with one another to attain the purposes of this MOU.
(d) Voluntary. This MOU is voluntarily entered into to attain the purposes of this MOU.
(e) Notices. Any notices, bills, invoices, or reports relating to this MOU, and any request, demand, statement, or other communication required or permitted hereunder must be in writing and must be delivered to the representatives of the Members at the addresses set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto. The Members must promptly notify each other of any change of contact information, including personnel changes, provided in Exhibit A. Written notice must include notice delivered via e-mail. A notice will be deemed to have been received on (i) the date of delivery, if delivered by hand during regular business hours, or by e-mail; or (ii) on the third (3rd) business day following mailing by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) to the addresses set forth in Exhibit A.
(f) Administration. For the purposes of this MOU, the Members hereby designate as their respective Member representatives the persons named in Exhibit A. The designated Member representatives, or their respective designees, will administer the terms and conditions of this MOU on behalf of their respective Member. (g) Relationship of the Members. The Members are, and will at all times remain as to each other, wholly independent entities. No Member to this MOU will have power to incur any debt, obligation, or liability on behalf of any other Member unless expressly provided to the contrary by this MOU. No employee, agent, or officer of a Member will be deemed for any purpose whatsoever to be an agent, employee, or officer of another Member. (h) Binding Effect. This MOU is binding upon, and will ensure the benefit of the respective successors, heirs, and assigns of each Member; provided, however, no Member may assign its respective rights or obligations under this MOU without prior written consent of the other Members.
(i) Amendment. The terms and provisions of this MOU may not be amended, modified, or waived, except by an instrument in writing signed by all non-delinquent Members.

For purposes of this subsection, a Member will be considered delinquent if that Member fails to timely pay its cost allocation to the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Employee Fund, as required by Section 5(a), withdraws pursuant to Section 9(b), or fails to substantially comply with the terms and/or conditions of this MOU pursuant to Section 8.
(j) Law to Govern. This MOU is governed by, interpreted under, and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California. (k) Severability. If any provision of this MOU is determined by any court to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable to any extent, then the remainder of this MOU will not be affected, and this MOU will be construed as if the invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision had A-5
6 never been contained in this MOU.
(l) Entire Agreement. This MOU constitutes the entire Agreement of the Members with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(m) Waiver. Waiver by any Member to this MOU of any term, condition, or covenant of this MOU will not constitute a waiver of any other term, condition, or covenant.

Waiver by any Members to any breach of the provisions of this MOU will not constitute a waiver of any other provision, nor a waiver of any subsequent breach or violation of any provision of this MOU.
(1) No Presumption in Drafting. All Members have been represented by legal counsel in the preparation and negotiation of this MOU. Accordingly, this MOU will be construed according to its fair language. Any ambiguities will be resolved in a collaborative manner by the Members and must be rectified by amending this MOU as described in Section l0(g). (n) Counterparts. This MOU may be executed in counterparts, which together will constitute the same and entire MOU.
(o) Corporate Authority. The person(s) executing this MOU on behalf of each of the Members represent and warrant that (i) such party, if not an individual, is duly organized and existing, (ii) they are duly authorized to execute and deliver this MOU on behalf of such Member, (iii) by so executing so Member is formally bound to the provisions of this MOU, and (iv) the entering into this MOU does not violate any provision of any other agreement to which such party is bound.

A-6
7 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the Members have caused this MOU to be executed and attested by its duly authorized officers as of the dates set forth below.

RANCHO PALOS VERDES
Dated: By: Paul Seo, Mayor

APPROVED AS TO FORM
Dated: By: William Wynder, City Attorney
A-7
8 LOMITA
Dated: By: Cindy Segawa, Mayor

APPROVED AS TO FORM
Dated: By: Trevor Rusin, City Attorney
Dated: ATTEST:

City Clerk
A-8
9 ROLLING HILLS
Dated: By: Bea Dieringer, Mayor

APPROVED AS TO FORM
Dated: By: Nicolas Papajohn, City Attorney
A-9
10 ROLLING HILLS ESTATES
Dated: By: Frank V. Zerunyan, Mayor

APPROVED AS TO FORM
Dated: By: Don Davis, City Attorney
A-10
11 EXHIBIT A

CITY ADDRESSES
Andrew Vialpando, City Manager
City of Lomita
24300 Narbonne Ave.

Lomita, CA 90717
(310) 325-7110
[email protected]
Ara Mihranian, City Manager
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
(310) 544-5202
[email protected]
Greg Grammer, City Manager
City of Rolling Hills Estates
4045 Palos Verdes Drive North
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
(310) 377-1577
[email protected]
Karina Banales, City Manager
City of Rolling Hills
2 Portuguese Bend Road
Rolling Hills, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
A-11
EXHIBIT B: LASD MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15 12 EXHIBIT B
LOS ANGELES SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15
A-12
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-091570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (LIAS) Operations 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations
[POLICY APPLIES ONLY TO UNITS AUTHORIZED BY THE UAS
OPERATIONS UNIT]
Note: Authorization to operate a UAS under this policy shall be granted and maintained solely by the UAS Operations Unit. Units will receive formal written authorization prior to initiating any UASrelated activity.

Purpose
To establish guidelines for the safe, authorized, and effective use of unmanned aerial systems (LIAS) that are regulated under the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Part 107 or require a Certificate of Authorization. UAS can serw as a valuable resource to increase community and officer safety, act as a valuable de-escalation tool, reduce response times, provide enhmced situational awareness, and support personnel in the course of their duties, inch.Kling the accurate reconstruction of complex traffic crashes and ai me soenes.

The Sheriff will establish a Department-wide UAS Operations Unit, which will oversee overall management of LIAS Operations, including:
• Compliance with laws and policies:
• Reporting usage to oversight bodies and the public website; • Establishing training standards;
• Acting as the liaison with the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB);
• Developing and maintaining equipment standards;
0 All Department UAS shall meet technical specifications established by the UAS Operations Unit and may only be purchased, donated, or leased by organizations or coliract cities in accordance with Department protocols. Donated or leased UAS equipment must be reviewed and approved by the UAS Operations Unit before acceptance or use.
o All software, support systems, or ancillary equipment used in conjurction with Department UAS shall be reviewed and approved by the LIAS Operations Unit before acceptance or use. • Overseeing the Safety Management System (SMS) and the LIAS Management Software; • Coordinating with individual Unit Commanders and their UAS Program Coordinators to ensure compliance with Department policies and placing restrictions on unit usage because of safety or risk managernel1 concerns;
• Recommending program enhancements, particularty regarding safety, information security, and privacy protection;
Printed: 81512026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Pg. 1 17 EXHIBIT B: LASD MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15 13 A-13
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Opera lions • Tracking data for mandated reporti,rg requirements, measuring lhe effectiveness of the use of UAS to successfully resolve inciderts and mitigate the risk of ham, to officers, suspects, or the public, as well as an analysis of any complaints received about UAS deployments; • Ensuring established protoools are followed;
• Providing periodic reports on the program to the Undersheriff and Sheriff. • Conduct a yearly command inspection of all units authorized to conduct UAS operations Arly Station, Unit, or Bureau w ishing to establish a UAS program shall contact the UAS Operations Unit and follow its procedures for establishing a LIAS program.

Definitions
Pursuant to Department guidelines and FAA regulations, the following definitions will be used in Unmanned Aerial System operations.

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS)- Operation of a UAS be~rn the distance at which the remote pib t in commarn (RPIC) or visual observer (VO) can maintain maided visual contact with the aircraft. to ensure safe and effective control of the flight
Controlled Airspace - An airspace or defined dimensions within which air traffic control (ATC) services are provided to Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flights arx:I to Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flights in accordance with the airspace classification (FAA Class B, C, D, or E).

Drone as First Responder (DFR) - The use of a UAS, deployed as an initial resporx:ling unit to active calls for service, providing aerial support as an initial responding resource, real-time video, and tactical overwatch to responding field personnel.

Field Deployments- Situations in which a UAS is deployed bya UAS Operator while in the field.

Flight Supervisor - The on-duty Walch Commander, rodent Commarx:ler, or Unit Commander designated supervisor responsible for approving depbyments consistent with this policy and reviewjng mission outcomes.

Photogrammetry - The science of makirg measurements from photographs, typically producing maps, drawings, measurements, or 3D models.

Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC) - The certified persomel responsible for the safe and lawful operation of the UAS during deployment
Safety Management System (SMS) -A structured framework designed to promote arx:I ensure the safe operation of the Department's UAS Program. SMS encompasses proactive and reactive strategies to analyze, identify, and mitigate hazards.

Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)-A UAS is an unmanned aerial system, including the equipment necessary for that aircraft's safe and efficient operation. It is defined by statute as an aircraft that is operated Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Pg. 2 / 7 EXHIBIT B: LASD MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15 14 A-14
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.

UAS Department Program Commander- Personnel holding the rank of Lieutenant or above wf1o is designated to oversee UAS Operations Department-wide.

UAS Program Coordinator- Persornel holding the rank of Sergeant or above who is designated to oversee the unit's UAS operations.

UAS Operator - A trained, certified member of a patrol station or unit authorized to deploy and operate UAS for missions consistent with this policy.

UAS Management Software - Software used for managing, tracking, and mairtaini~ the Department's UAS fleet.

Visual Observer (VO) - A person who assists the RP IC in the duties associated with collision avoidance.

These duties include, but are not limited to, avoidance of other traffic, clouds, obstructions, and terrain.

Deployments
The UAS may be utilized to ertiance the Department's mission of protecting lives, presen.irg property, and supportirg the collection of evidence. Al Department UAS deployments shall be conducted in a manner that is consistent with the requirements and protections oflhe Ur.led States Constitution and the California Stale Constitution, and pursuant lo all applicable laws and regulations.

The policy authorizes the deployment of UAS as an initial responding resource for any Department unit that has an established UAS Program. All UAS programs must be approved by the UAS Operations Unit. The UAS may be lauoched for real-time crime scene awareness. crime scene or traffic collision documentation, and tactical assessment prior to the arrival of ground units. Tm authority to deploy remains with the Flight Supervisor. who shall ensLJ"e compliance with this policy, including required reporti~ to the UAS Operations Unit. All UAS deployments shall be documented and reported to the UAS Operations Unit within 48 hours of deploymert.

Specialized units, such as the Special Enforcement B1Jeau (SEB), Detective Division ur.ts, Emergency Operations Bureau (EOB), Scientific Services Bureau, and other non-patrol-based b1Jeaus. may deploy UAS lo support tactical, investigative, or eImergency response operations. All deployments must comply with FAA regulations, Department UAS Program guidelines, and this policy. Use of a UAS by specialized units shall be incident-driven and must be approved by the designated Incident Commander overseeing the scene. UAS missions conducted for crime scene documentation, search and rescue, surveillance duiing exigent operations, or support of warrant service shall be documented and reported to the UAS Operations Unit within 48 hol.f'S of deployment.

The UAS flight crew (i e., UAS Operator, RPIC, and VO) shall take reasonable precautions to avoid inadvertently recordirg or transmitting images of area(s) where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Reasonable precautions can include, for example. deactJ vating or turning imaging devices away from such areas or persons during UAS operations and when recording flights pursuant lo this policy. However, when exigent circumstances exist, flight crews may adjust the imagi~ scope and its posilion rg as operationally necessary to address the emergency, while continuing lo minimize L11necessary intrusion into private areas.

Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Pg. 3 / 7 EXHIBIT B: LASD MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15 15 A-15
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations UAS deployments shall only be conducted by trained and certified personnel with the oversight of a Flight Supervisor or the UAS Operations Urit. AD operations shall meet th:! followirg standards:
• All UAS operators must be FAA-certified and complete Department-approved UAS training; • All flights must adhere to regulations established by th:! FAA; and • Deployments to monitor a pre~planned ptblic event must be dorewith the approval of the unit's Division Chief.

The Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) of a UAS is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as lo, the operation of that UAS.

NOTE: A UAS deployment alone does not constitute a response to a call for service (see MPP section 2- 06/030.05, Patrol Responsibility).

Proh ibited Uses
Department UAS shall not
• Be used to lJ'llawfu:lly harass, intimidate, or discriminate agairst any irdividual or group; • Be used lo randomly surveil any member of the Department, of the public, or an area without a nexus to Public Safety;
• Be used to record or photograph any First Amendment assemblies for the purpose of identifying participants who are not engaged in unlawful conduct;
• Be conducted when cordilions present an unreasonable risk observed by th:! RPIC at the time of the mission;
• Be used for any persorel business;
• Be equipped with weapons or any form of less-lethal munitions, or any facial recognition software; and • Be used in a ma mer or used with any software or added equipment that is contrary to any additional restrictions imposed by the Department-wide UAS Program Commander.

No Department member shall deploy a personally owned UAS vmile on duty.

Training and Certification
All UAS operators shall maintain a current FAA certification and complete the Department's designated training course. VAS Operations Unit shall maintain records ofcertllication, training, ard Hight hours for aD operators. Training beyond the minimum required standards will be supported and encouraged_ Flights for the purposes of training or maintaining proficiency are allowed U'lder this policy. All training ftigt1s Printed: 8/512026 (WEBJ Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Pg. 4 /7 EXHIBIT B: LASD MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15 16 A-16
ManuaI1 of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations must be logged.

Data Retention and Evidence
Absent exigent or unexpected circumstances, the UAS Program Coordinator shall ensure any UAS deployment and associated digital data (photos and video) are captured and retained in accordance with Department policy in the Department's specified digital evidence management system (OEMS).

Recording
For deployments regarding real-time crime scere awareness arxl tactical assessment prior to the arrival of ground units, recording each incident shall begin at or near the scene of the incident arxl continue to record U1til the UAS leaves the location or the investigative or enforcement activity has erxled. Unless necessary for safe operation, wtile in transit, UAS camera systems must be directed toward the horizon and may only be activated for recording at or near the incident scene. Safeguarding the privacy of the commuiity is paramount. As such, RPICs are remirxled that they shall take reasonable precautions to avoid inadvertently recording or transmitting images of areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.

For missions where the primary purpose is pootography or photogrammetry, prior to or at the completion of an incident, video recording is not required.

Field Deployments
When deploying a UAS in the field, tile UAS operator should consider the use of a VO when practical.

Deconfliction ·with manned aircraft is of paramount importanoe. The RPIC and VO are responsible for ensuring safe interactions
UAS Program Coordinator Responsibilities
1he UAS Program Coordinator shall:
• Ensure their unit's UAS fleet is properly maintained, and the equipment is inspected regular1y, including applicable firmware and software '-l}dates to ensure privacy, sectrity, and integrity of evidenoe; • Ensure all maintenance is property documented;
• Ensure any persomel operating a UAS within their u,it have slXXJessfully completed and maintained the proper certification and training;
• Ensure a lhor01 .gh weekly report of all required UAS usage data is maintained at the u,it and submitted to the UAS Operations Unit; and
• Ensure all reporting requirements pursuant to Department poflcy and Government Code 7070 et seq. are adhered to.

Accident Reporting
Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sherifrs Department Pg. 5 / 7 EXHIBIT B: LASD MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15 17 A-17
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations ., the event the UAS is involved in a collision or accident, Im UAS Operator shall 1immediately ootify the Flight Supervisor and the FM if applicab'le. It shall be the responsibility of the Flight Supervisor to make ootifications to Aero Bureau, and UAS Operations Unit. The UAS Operations Unit shall be responsible for coordinating with lhe Aero Bureau for notifications to the FM and NTSB as applicable.

A supervisor shall respond to !he scene to enstJe the procedures of an aircraft collision are followed. The supervisor shall also be responsible for documenting the collision in a detailed memorandum.

The detailed memorandum shall irdude photographs of lhe UAS, the surrot.nding environment, and any involved property. Supervisory personnel shall ensure the collection of statements from involved members of the pubflc and witnesses, obtain identification of any civilians affected, and e11Sure preservation of relevant digital night logs and data from the UAS. The supervisor will also obtain From lhe RPIC a summary of the mission type, conditions at lhe time of the incident, contributing factors, and any operational anomalies that occurred. The UAS Program Coordinator for the L11it shall conduct a review of the incident. and a memo shall be submitted to the UAS Operations Unit detailing lhe collision.

Personnel involved in the operation of the UAS at the time of the collision shall provide a safety statement ~luding: location of collision, any potential immediate hazards (i.e., power lines or similar hazards), any potentiaDy injtred persons, and any damaged property.
-ncidents involving injury to non-employees, rowever minor, while on County property (owned or leased) must be reported on lhe Non-Employee l~ury Form (SH-AD-668) and distributed as indicated on the form.

All UAS collisions that meet FM-reportable thresholds-such as iocidents illll'Olving serious injury, loss of consciousness, or property damage in excess of $500 (excluding the drone itself}-shall be reported by the RPIC to the FAA and the NTSB within ten calendar days, as required t.nder 14 CFR Part 107. The UAS Operations Unit, in COr'4Unciion with Aero Bureau, will ensure this notification is completed by the RP IC as required. ~Damage to County Property" report shall also be completed and submitted to the Risk Management Bureau, consistent with Department policy for deputy-im,ulved vehicle crashes. All documentation, including photos, witness statements, and internal reports, shall be retained by the UAS Operations Unit
Use of UAS Owned or O_perated by an Outside Agency
Personnel may request and utilize the UAS of an outside public safety agency when the Department's operational needs warrant support and all the folowing conditions are met:
• The deployment must comply with the standards, restrictions, and operational expectations outlined in the MPP, including the reporting of each deployment;
• The use of an outside agencys UAS must be authorized by the on-duty Watch Commander or Incident Commander and reported to the UAS Operations Unit within 48 hours of deploymert; and • A complete copy of any digital data collected by the outside agency's UAS must be requested by LASO persomel. Any digital media must be retained in accordance with Department policy. r lhe outside agency does not provide the material requested, it should be documented accordingly.

Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff s Department Pg. 6 / 7 EXHIBIT B: LASD MANUAL OF POLICY AND PROCEDURES 5-09/570.15 18 A-18
Manual or Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Reporting of Each Deployment
The operator of each UAS must report each deployment and use or the UAS. The reporting shall take place in the Military Equipment Management System (MEMS), the electronic UAS system log. The electronic log will provide pertinent ililformation, including the incident number, the time, location, UAS operator's identifyirrg infonnation, the type of incident, and the results of lhe deployment Military Equipment Reporting
UAS devices are considered military equipment under California Goverrment Code Section 7070 et seq., and require annual reporting on their use and involved costs. The UAS Operations Unit is responsible for collecting aD inventory, procurement, recording costs, managing training requirements, and ensll"ing accurate reporting in the Department's annual military equipment report.

Public Notification and Transparency
Before a station begins use of UAS pursuant lo this policy, a community outreach plan shall be developed and implemented in collaboration with local stakeholders (e.g., a station's Commullity Advisory Committee (CAC) or other community groups). Metrics evaluating flight lime, response lime reduction, evidentiary value, community satisfaction, and complaint trends shall be collected, consistert wHh the Department-wide UAS data collection efforts. Stations shall report their data in a timely manner in order to ensure that the monthly Department-wide data reports can be completed in a timely manner. Each station shall evaluate its in::lividual metrics for program effectiveness at the station or unit level.

The UAS Operations Unit shall maintain a UAS dastboard on the Department's Transparency Page, which will be updated regularly, but not less than monthly. This dashboard shall include information, including the rumber of flights, locations, an::l types of calls on all UAS deployments except for those relaled to ongoing investigations .
., addition, the Department will provide the Civilian Oversight Commission with an annual report summarizing UAS usage (including the number and type of situabons in wtich UAS devices were used), the results and effectiveness of any deployments lo mitigate the risk of harm to officers, suspects, or the public, the nah..-e and number of any complaints received, and any policy exceptions. This report will also be posted on the Department's website.

Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Pg. 7 17 EXHIBIT C: LOMITA CAPTAIN’S MEMORANDUM ON UAS PROGRAM, JULY 2026 19 EXHIBIT C
LOMITA SHERIFF’S STATION
MEMORANDUM ON THE UAS PROGRAM, DATED JULY 7, 2026
A-19
S11-AD-J2A [11117}

COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT ''A Tradition of Service Since 1850" DATE July 7, 2026
FILE:

OFFICE CORRESPONDENCE
FROM: KIMBERLY GUERRERO, CAPTAIN

LOMITA STATION
TO: CITY MANAGERS

PENINSULA REGIONAL LAW

ENFORCEMENT COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM PROGRAM PROPOSAL
Synopsis
This document is intended to propose the creation of an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) program to increase the capacity of the Lomita Sheriffs Station in the investigations of crime and preservation of public safety and property. It is proposed that the Lomita Sheriffs Station authorize ttle creation ofa UAS, or"drone~ program, make a commitment to the training and licensure of one or more patrol staff, and purchase the relevant UAS drone technology to support the objective of the UAS program.

Background
Law enforcement agencies around the countiy are increasingly adopting the use of UAS drone technology, commonly referred to as "drones~. by augmenting their capacity to preserve public safety and property. As of January 2026, as many as 1,400 agencies throughout the United States have implemented the use of UAS drone technology. In Los Angeles County, local law enforcement agencies of varying sizes are deploying aerial assets to achieve their missions.
other neighboring municipal agencies such as Torrance Police Department, Hawthorne Police Department, Redondo Beach Police Department and Manhattan Beach Police Department have adopted UAS drone programs for suspect tracking, crime scene documentation, and search and rescue.

Supporting Data
In 2025, deputies from the Lomita Sheriff's Station responded to a substantial number of critical incidents within the cities of Lomita, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills Estates, Rolling Hills, and unincorporated Los Angeles County areas. These incidents included EXHIBIT C: LOMITA CAPTAIN’S MEMORANDUM ON UAS PROGRAM, JULY 2026 20 A-20
critical missing persons cases, critical infrastructure damage due to the Portuguese Bend land movement, complex motor vehicle crashes, and fleeing suspects.

In February of 2025, Lomita Station deputies responded to a residential !burglary in progress call in the city of Lomita. The situation quickly evolved into a barricaded armed suspect incident. Torrance Police Department responded to assist and were able to contain the target residence with UAS drones without jeopardizing officer safety_ As the situation continued, a tactical plan to fill the residence with cs gas (known as ·tear gas") was formulated to safely draw the armed suspect out of the residence without jeopardizing officer safety. A UAS drone was flown into residence prior to the deployment of cs gas. and it was determined the suspect was now unarmed. Deputies safely made entry into the residence and took the suspect into custody without incident. The use of a UAS drone in this 1incident saved the victim's residence from becoming permanently damaged due to the use of cs gas.

In 2023, Rolling Hills Estates residents experienced a landslide in the Peartree area.

During a security detail two suspects were observed burglarizing a vacant home. Lomita deputies requested assistance from Torrance Police Department who deployed a UAS over the area. Two suspects were spotted from the UAS and subsequently arrested for residential burglary.

During a recent high risk search warrant service conducted by Lomita Sheriff's Station detectives and deputies in the city of San Pedro, Torrance Police Department SWAT responded and deployed a drone iinto a homicide suspect's residence and were able to successfully locate the suspect and take him into custody without incident or jeopardizing officer safety. The UAS drone was also able to obtain an aerial containment of the residence without having to place officers and deputies in compromising positions whioh could have otherwise exposed them to a possible armed suspect. !Benefits and Ap.plication
Applications of UAS drones relevant to Law Enforcement primarily include aerial information gathering, imaging, communication, as well as risk planning and mitigation.

These applications can be utilized in a broad spectrum of calls for service, including but not limited to:
- Communication during a barricaded suspect sit uation (str1uct ures and vehicles) - Tracking of fleeing suspects
- Access t o areas not easily accessible on foot or by radio car - Search and Rescue
- Aerial Crime and Crash Scene Documentat ion
UAS drones and technology may include the following features beneficial to Law Enforcement:

Thermal Imaging:

Therma'I imaging could be used to locate suspects attempting to hide or flee. warm engines of recently parked vehicles suspected of !being involved in a crime or even locate missing persons. A lar,ge portion of Lomita Station's jurisdiction is covered EXHIBIT C: LOMITA CAPTAIN’S MEMORANDUM ON UAS PROGRAM, JULY 2026 21 A-21
in foliage. Thermal imaging can visualize heat within foliage and assist in locating persons of interest in such areas.

Flood and Spotlights:

Floodlights and spotlights can be used to illuminate the immediate and surrounding areas around a suspect. The lights could aid deputies in identifying and apprehending suspects as well as determine if suspects are in possession of a weapon.

Zoomable Cameras:

UAS drones and technology can use physical lens zoom and digital zoom cameras to aid in long-distance surveillance and identifying suspects. Cameras can also be used to zoom into suspects' hands and windows of a residence or vehicle where a suspect is barricaded.

Speakers.·
UAS drones can cany on-board speakers which can be used to play pre-recorded messages such as surrender instructions to a suspect or reassurance to persons in need of rescue in hard-to-reach areas.

Image and Video Capture:

UAS drones can capture aerial video and images of a large crime scene or vehicle crash that may be otherwise hard to obtain at ground level.

The value of the aerial intelligence provided by UAS drones is enormous. Intelligence gathered by a UAS drone can be considered during critical response planning to avoid unnecessary uses of force. identify if a suspect is compliant or resisting lawful commands, or identify if suspects are armed with weapons.

Assets such as K-9 and Aero Bureau are limited to Lomita Station. and UAS drone technology can provide a solution. With an approximate 5-minute deployment time after a licensed opera1or has arrived at the scene of an incident, Lomita Station deputies may be able to apprehend fleeing suspects who could have otherwise fled the scene without any form of K-9 or aerial support
Limited proactive uses, where appropriate in the eyes of the public, can be available with the use of UAS drone technology such as aerial imaging of the areas and roadways affected by the Portuguese Bend landslide and public works planning.

Discussion
The Lomita Sheriffs Station enjoys a significant amount of public trust and support within the communities we serve. We anticipate the cities of Lomita. Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, and Rolling Hills Estates will support and embrace our use of UAS drones to further increase our abfllty to ensure public safety and the protection of life and property.

EXHIBIT C: LOMITA CAPTAIN’S MEMORANDUM ON UAS PROGRAM, JULY 2026 22 A-22
Proposal
This proposal includes three investment areas:
- The creat ion of a UAS drone program
- Acquisition of UAS drone technology
- The commitment to licensure and training of patrol staff per Department and Federal regulations
Creation of a UAS drone program:

Law enforcement agencies that adopt UAS drone technology justifiably hear public dialogue and concerns about its appropriate use_ In addition to maintaining public trust. the use of UAS drone technology must comply with state and federal regulations and may be su'bject to more complex restrictions regarding the use of evidence acquired using UAS drone technology. Due to these challenges. this proposal emphasizes the need for a commitment to develop a UAS drone program that tracks, monitors, and guides the use of UAS drones in our daily operations_
The UAS drone program shall be led by a staff member who will:
- Maintain inventory of station-owned UAS drones and accessories - Coordinate the required federal licensure and training of UAS drone operators - Monitor. track., and report on deployments of UAS drones Commitment to licensure and training of patrol staff:

Piloting a UAS requires an individual to be licensed by the FAA. Lomita Sheriffs Station must be committed to the training and licensure of patrol deputies assigned to pilot UAS drones. Rules and regulations surrounding the use of UAS drones are constantly evolving, and UAS drone pilots can be subject to new licensure and training requirements at any time_ Lomita Sheriff's Station should consider designating multiple deputies on every shift as UAS drone pilots to ensure the technology is widely available to support patrol operations as much as possible.

Acquisition of UAS drone technology:

The financing and purchase of UAS drone technology will allow Lomita Sheriffs Station to commit to specific technologies and platfonns specific to our needs_ Technology such as thermal imaging and onboard spotlights may be necessary due to heavy foliage in our jurisdictions_ Extended flight times. which come in the form of larger drones capable of carrying higher capacity batteries, may also be necessary due to the average durations (one hour or more) of critical incidents that occur in our jurisdictions.

EXHIBIT C: LOMITA CAPTAIN’S MEMORANDUM ON UAS PROGRAM, JULY 2026 23 A-23
Liability
Lomita Sheriffs Station will purchase UAS drone technology which is currently approved by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department with the finances provided and donated by our four contract cities. The UAS drones will become the property of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, Lomita Sheriffs Station, Which will assume all liabilities in case of any accident or damages to a person or property.

Upon acceptance by the County ot Los Angeles, the donated unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) become the sole property of the County ot Los Angeles and are assigned to the Los Angeles County Sheliffs Department Lomita Station for official law enforcement purposes. The donor cities retain no ownership interest. possess no authority over the operation of the equipment, and do not participate in the deployment, supervision, maintenance, or operation of the UAS program.

The parties acknowledge that any funds contributed by the participating cities are voluntary donations for the purchase of equipment. Upon acceptance by the County of Los Angeles, title to all equipment shall vest exclusively in the County of Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department shall have exclusive authority regarding deployment, operation. maintenance, storage, supervision, and use of the equipment Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as creating a joint exercise of powers or joint operationaI1 responsibility for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems.

Department Policy and Legal Standards
The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department has created a new policy for the use of UAS drones. It can be viewed under the LASO Manual of Policy and Procedures 5- 09/570.15. The policy includes strict guidelines for public transparency, approved and prohibited uses (which prohibit the use of UAS drones for random surveillance). as well as deployment procedures.

Conclusion
This proposal outlines the many advantages of integrating UAS drone technology into Lomita Sheriffs Station's daily operations. The entry cost ot UAS dmnes is at its lowest considering the rapid advancements in technology. The use ot UAS drones presents an opportunity to employ alternative strategies during critical incidents and operations where other resources, such as K-9 and Aero Bureau, are unable to respond. Lomita Sheriffs Station's UAS drone program will be a large step forward into modem policing solutions that will aid the variety of challenges we are presented with in today's climate.

Prepared by:

Manny Matamoros
DSLRPros.com
Ph. +1-213-373-5387
[email protected]
Date Created: 03 / 06 / 2026 01:12
Prepared for:

Mark Chua
LASD - Lomita Sheriff's Station
Quote ID: KXFWR-UZJNK-4MYB6-KCXEL
B-1
Intelligent Drone Solutions
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent.

Name Price QTY Tax Subtotal

ESSENTIAL KIT
DJI Matrice 400 Drone Package
• 1x M400 Aircraft (with propeller holder)
• 1x Carrying Case
• 2x Propellers (Pair)
• 6x Propeller Washers and Screws
• 1x Remote Controller (with DJI RC Plus 2 sub2G SDR
Module)
• 1x Power Cable
• 1x Remote Controller Strap and Bracket (with two
screws)
• 1x WB37 Intelligent Battery
• 2x Landing Gear
• 1x USB-C to USB-C Cable
• 1x Screws and Tool Set
• 1x Cleaning Tool Set
• 1x Rubber Port Covers and Screws
• 4x Gimbal Damper
S-DJI-M400
$10 450,00 1 $1 097,25 $11 547,25
DSLRPros Care Plus for DJI Matrice 400 2-Year
• Coverage Length: 2 years from the date your product
ships
• What’s Covered: Accidental damage from pilot error,
collisions, drops, water exposure, signal interference, and internal malfunctions
• What’s Not Covered: Intentional misuse,
modifications, loss or theft, cosmetic wear,
consumables (like propellers or batteries), or
operation outside manufacturer guidelines
• Replacements: One replacement during the coverage
term. Replacement may be new or refurbished. If
unavailable, we’ll provide a product of similar
capability.
• How to File a
Claim: Notify [email protected] within 7 days of
an incident. Ship the product using the label we
provide.
$3 198,00 1 $0,00 $3 198,00
B-2
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent. • Eligibility: Policy must be purchased before your
product ships from DSLRPROS. Coverage applies only
to the original purchaser.

V-DSLR-400-CP-2Y
DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo
• 1x DJI Avata 2
• 1x DJI RC Motion 3
• 1x DJI RC Motion 3 Lanyard
• 1x DJI Goggles 3
• 1x DJI Goggles 3 Foam Padding
• 1x DJI Goggles 3 Additional Forehead Pad
• 1x DJI Goggles 3 -2.0D Corrective Lenses (Pair)
• 1x USB-C OTG Cable
• 3x DJI Avata 2 Intelligent Flight Battery
• 2x DJI Avata 2 Propellers (Pair)
• 8x DJI Avata 2 Propeller Screws
• 1x Screwdriver
• 1x DJI Avata 2 Gimbal Protector
• 1x Type-C to Type-C PD Cable
S-DJI-AVATA2-FMC
$1 395,00 1 $146,48 $1 541,48
DSLRPROS 27" Mobile Display Suitcase
• 1x DSLRPros 27" Mobile Display Suitcase
• 1x 1.5 meters AC Cable
• 1x 0.8 meters Bluetooth Remote Control
• 1x USB-C Cable
• 1x User Manual
S-27DISSUIT-CASE
$999,00 2 $209,79 $2 207,79
DJI BS100 Inteligent Battery Station
• 1x DJI BS100 Inteligent Battery Station
S-DJI-BS100
$1 919,00 1 $201,50 $2 120,50
B-3
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
® nsLRPr,,··
Ci·hhlMl1~i
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent.

DJI TB100 Intelligent Flight Battery
• 1x DJI TB100 Intelligent Flight Battery
S-DJI-TB100
$1 925,00 3 $144,38 $5 919,38
DJI CrystalSky/Cendence - WB37 Intelligent
Battery
• 1x DJI CrystalSky/Cendence - WB37 Intelligent Battery

S-DJI-CS-CEN-INT-BATT
$99,00 4 $41,58 $437,58
DJI WB37 Battery Charging Hub (USB-C)
DJI WB37 Battery Charging Hub (USB-C)
• For use with CrystalSky & Cendence Intelligent
Batteries
• Charge batteries in sequence
$109,00 2 $22,89 $240,89
DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise
1x DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise
S-DJI-RC-PLUS-2
$2 199,00 1 $230,90 $2 429,90
DJI RC Plus Strap and Bracket Kit
• 1x DJI RC Plus Strap and Bracket Kit
$62,37 3 $19,65 $206,76
B-4
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
I
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent.

S-DJI-RC-PLUS-KIT
DJI Zenmuse H30T (Camera Only)
1x DJI Zenmuse H30T (Camera Only)
S-DJI-ZH30T
$11 610,00 1 $1 219,05 $12 829,05
DJI Zenmuse V1
• 1x Zenmuse V1 Loudspeaker Payload
• 1x Gimbal Port Protection Cap
• 1x Storage Box
• 1x Manuals
S-DJI-ZV1
$1 221,00 1 $128,21 $1 349,21
DJI Zenmuse S1 Spotlight
• 1x Zenmuse S1 Spotlight Payload
• 1x Gimbal Port Protection Cap
• 1x Storage Box
• 1x Lens Protection Rubber Cap
• 1x Lens Cleaning Cloth
• 1x Manuals
S-DJI-ZS1
$1 889,00 1 $198,35 $2 087,35
CZI TH4 V2 Throwing Hook Drop System for
Matrice M300/M350
• 1x CZI TH4 V2 Throwing Hook Drop System
S-NB-TH4-V2
$1 150,00 1 $120,75 $1 270,75
B-5
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent.

DJI Matrice 400 2510F Propeller
• 1x DJI Matrice 400 2510F Propeller
S-DJI-M400-PROP
$65,00 8 $54,60 $574,60
DJI MATRICE 4T DRONE PACKAGE
DJI Matrice 4T Universal Edition
• 1x DJI Matrice 4T
• 1x DJI Matrice 4 Series Battery
• 1x DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise
• 1x DJI 100W USB-C Power Adapter
• 1x DJI Matrice 4 Series Charging Hub
• 1x microSD Card
• 1x DJI Matrice 4T Gimbal Protector
• 1x DJI Cellular Dongle 2 Pry Bar
• 3x DJI Matrice 4 Series Propellers
• 1x 100W Power Adaptor AC Cable
• 1x USB-C to USB-C Data Cable
• 1x USB-A to USB-C Data Cable
• 1x DJI Matrice 4 Series Storage Case
• 1x DJI Matrice 4 Series Storage Case Shoulder Strap
• 3-months Free DJI Terra Pro License
S-DJI-M4T
$7 799,00 2 $1 637,79 $17 235,79
DSLRPros Care Plus for DJI Matrice 4T 2-Year
• Coverage Length: 2 years from the date your product
ships
• What’s Covered: Accidental damage from pilot error,
collisions, drops, water exposure, signal interference, and internal malfunctions
• What’s Not Covered: Intentional misuse,
modifications, loss or theft, cosmetic wear,
$2 398,00 2 $0,00 $4 796,00
B-6
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
II II
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent. consumables (like propellers or batteries), or
operation outside manufacturer guidelines
• Replacements: One replacement during the coverage
term. Replacement may be new or refurbished. If
unavailable, we’ll provide a product of similar
capability.
• How to File a
Claim: Notify [email protected] within 7 days of
an incident. Ship the product using the label we
provide.
• Eligibility: Policy must be purchased before your
product ships from DSLRPROS. Coverage applies only
to the original purchaser.

V-DSLR-4T-CP-2Y
DJI Matrice 4 Series Battery
• 1x Matrice 4 Series Intelligent Battery
S-DJI-M4-BAT
$255,00 6 $160,65 $1 690,65
DJI Matrice 4 Series Propellers
• 1x DJI Matrice 4 Series Propellers Pairs
S-DJI-M4-PROP
$33,00 8 $27,72 $291,72
DJI AL1 Spotlight
• 1x DJI AL1 Spotlight
• 2x Spare Screw
• 1x Hex Key
S-DJI-AL1
$495,00 2 $103,95 $1 093,95
B-7
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
@ nsLRPro, ·
Ci·hhlMl1~i
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent.

DJI AS1 Speaker
• 1x Speaker
• 1x Spare Adapter Bracket
• 1x Hex Key
S-DJI-AS1
$335,00 2 $70,35 $740,35
Drone Landing Pad
• Lightweight and portable
• 42-inch (3.5ft) diameter
• Folds down to 16-inches
• Easily visible from the air
• Includes carrying bag and securing stakes

S-NB-LPAD
$0,00 3 $0,00 $0,00

OPTIONAL SERVICES
(Optional items will not reflect in total unless selected) FREE Lifetime Customer Care & Technical
Support Via Phone, Email & Chat
$0,00 1 $0,00 $0,00
Enterprise Concierge Assist
Our customer care team is here to make sure that your
aftersales experience is as seamless as the original transaction.

We will assist our clients through the Enterprise Care
deductible process ( if applicable ) as well as any warranty or not warranty related issues. We're here to help facilitate your success!
*** Normally a $500 Service ***

S-ECA-EUAS
$0,00 1 $0,00 $0,00
B-8
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent.

Airdata Enterprise Managment + Live Streaming
Bundle - 1 Drone (1 Month) Free Trial
• 1x Airdata Enterprise Managment + Live Streaming
Bundle - 1 Drone (1 Month) Free Trial
V-AD-EELS-120-FREE
$0,00 1 $0,00 $0,00
AirData Enterprise + Live Streaming Bundle - 5
Drones, 5 Users, 25 Hr/Mo for 1 Year
• 1x AirData Enterprise Management + Live Streaming
Bundle - 5 Drones (1 Year)
B-AD-EELS-525
$5 740,00 1 $0,00 $5 740,00
Custom 1 Day On-site Training
DSLRPros’ UAS training has helped maximize drone program safety and efficiency for countless companies, public safety agencies, and individual pilots. With a team of expert
instructors located across the country, more than 500 students and counting have attended DSLRPros’ training programs.

V-NB-TRAIN
$0,00 1 $0,00 $0,00

SHIPPING & HANDLING
Ground Shipping

V-NB-SHIP
$0,00 1 $0,00 $0,00
*** Sales Tax applicable if shipping inside US ***
Subtotal $73 808,92
Total $73 808,92
B-9
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
D
D
AIRDAJfY
M II IUMMIIN SUSERS 25HIIS- 1YEAR
www.dslrpros.com | 877-299-1075
19850 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311
This document contains sensitive and proprietary information from DSLRPros.com. Use or disclosure of the information contained herein is NOT permitted without prior written consent.

Signatures
Again, we want to thank you for purchasing your equipment or services with DSLRPros.com. By signing below you agree to our terms and conditions and have read and understand the pricing provided. You also agree not to share the information & pricing provided in this document to anyone outside of your organization. https://www.dslrpros.com/terms-of-use ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ 02 / 04 / 2026
Signature Date
___________________________________________
Mark Chua
___________________________________________
Deputy
Name Title
B-10
(l)nsLRPros-™
Intelligent Drone Solutions
SH-AD-32A (8/17)

COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT “A Tradition of Service Since 1850” DATE: July 7, 2026
FILE:

OFFICE CORRESPONDENCE
FROM: KIMBERLY GUERRERO, CAPTAIN

LOMITA STATION
TO: CITY MANAGERS

PENINSULA REGIONAL LAW

ENFORCEMENT COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM PROGRAM PROPOSAL
Synopsis
This document is intended to propose the creation of an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) program to increase the capacity of the Lomita Sheriff’s Station in the investigations of crime and preservation of public safety and property. It is proposed that the Lomita Sheriff’s Station authorize the creation of a UAS, or “drone” program, make a commitment to the training and licensure of one or more patrol staff, and purchase the relevant UAS drone technology to support the objective of the UAS program.

Background
Law enforcement agencies around the country are increasingly adopting the use of UAS drone technology, commonly referred to as “drones”, by augmenting their capacity to preserve public safety and property. As of January 2026, as many as 1,400 agencies throughout the United States have implemented the use of UAS drone technology. In Los Angeles County, local law enforcement agencies of varying sizes are deploying aerial assets to achieve their missions.

Other neighboring municipal agencies such as Torrance Police Department, Hawthorne Police Department, Redondo Beach Police Department and Manhattan Beach Police Department have adopted UAS drone programs for suspect tracking, crime scene documentation, and search and rescue.

Supporting Data
In 2025, deputies from the Lomita Sheriff’s Station responded to a substantial number of critical incidents within the cities of Lomita, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills Estates, Rolling Hills, and unincorporated Los Angeles County areas. These incidents included C-1
critical missing persons cases, critical infrastructure damage due to the Portuguese Bend land movement, complex motor vehicle crashes, and fleeing suspects.

In February of 2025, Lomita Station deputies responded to a residential burglary in progress call in the city of Lomita. The situation quickly evolved into a barricaded armed suspect incident. Torrance Police Department responded to assist and were able to contain the target residence with UAS drones without jeopardizing officer safety. As the situation continued, a tactical plan to fill the residence with CS gas (known as “tear gas”) was formulated to safely draw the armed suspect out of the residence without jeopardizing officer safety. A UAS drone was flown into residence prior to the deployment of CS gas, and it was determined the suspect was now unarmed. Deputies safely made entry into the residence and took the suspect into custody without incident. The use of a UAS drone in this incident saved the victim’s residence from becoming permanently damaged due to the use of CS gas.

In 2023, Rolling Hills Estates residents experienced a landslide in the Peartree area.

During a security detail two suspects were observed burglarizing a vacant home. Lomita deputies requested assistance from Torrance Police Department who deployed a UAS over the area. Two suspects were spotted from the UAS and subsequently arrested for residential burglary.

During a recent high risk search warrant service conducted by Lomita Sheriff’s Station detectives and deputies in the city of San Pedro, Torrance Police Department SWAT responded and deployed a drone into a homicide suspect’s residence and were able to successfully locate the suspect and take him into custody without incident or jeopardizing officer safety. The UAS drone was also able to obtain an aerial containment of the residence without having to place officers and deputies in compromising positions which could have otherwise exposed them to a possible armed suspect.

Benefits and Application
Applications of UAS drones relevant to Law Enforcement primarily include aerial information gathering, imaging, communication, as well as risk planning and mitigation.

These applications can be utilized in a broad spectrum of calls for service, including but not limited to:
- Communication during a barricaded suspect situation (structures and vehicles) - Tracking of fleeing suspects
- Access to areas not easily accessible on foot or by radio car - Search and Rescue
- Aerial Crime and Crash Scene Documentation
UAS drones and technology may include the following features beneficial to Law Enforcement:

Thermal Imaging:

Thermal imaging could be used to locate suspects attempting to hide or flee, warm engines of recently parked vehicles suspected of being involved in a crime or even locate missing persons. A large portion of Lomita Station’s jurisdiction is covered C-2
in foliage. Thermal imaging can visualize heat within foliage and assist in locating persons of interest in such areas.

Flood and Spotlights:

Floodlights and spotlights can be used to illuminate the immediate and surrounding areas around a suspect. The lights could aid deputies in identifying and apprehending suspects as well as determine if suspects are in possession of a weapon.

Zoomable Cameras:

UAS drones and technology can use physical lens zoom and digital zoom cameras to aid in long-distance surveillance and identifying suspects. Cameras can also be used to zoom into suspects’ hands and windows of a residence or vehicle where a suspect is barricaded.

Speakers:

UAS drones can carry on-board speakers which can be used to play pre-recorded messages such as surrender instructions to a suspect or reassurance to persons in need of rescue in hard-to-reach areas.

Image and Video Capture:

UAS drones can capture aerial video and images of a large crime scene or vehicle crash that may be otherwise hard to obtain at ground level.

The value of the aerial intelligence provided by UAS drones is enormous. Intelligence gathered by a UAS drone can be considered during critical response planning to avoid unnecessary uses of force, identify if a suspect is compliant or resisting lawful commands, or identify if suspects are armed with weapons.

Assets such as K-9 and Aero Bureau are limited to Lomita Station, and UAS drone technology can provide a solution. With an approximate 5-minute deployment time after a licensed operator has arrived at the scene of an incident, Lomita Station deputies may be able to apprehend fleeing suspects who could have otherwise fled the scene without any form of K-9 or aerial support.

Limited proactive uses, where appropriate in the eyes of the public, can be available with the use of UAS drone technology such as aerial imaging of the areas and roadways affected by the Portuguese Bend landslide and public works planning.

Discussion
The Lomita Sheriff’s Station enjoys a significant amount of public trust and support within the communities we serve. We anticipate the cities of Lomita, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, and Rolling Hills Estates will support and embrace our use of UAS drones to further increase our ability to ensure public safety and the protection of life and property.

C-3
Proposal
This proposal includes three investment areas:
- The creation of a UAS drone program
- Acquisition of UAS drone technology
- The commitment to licensure and training of patrol staff per Department and Federal regulations
Creation of a UAS drone program:

Law enforcement agencies that adopt UAS drone technology justifiably hear public dialogue and concerns about its appropriate use. In addition to maintaining public trust, the use of UAS drone technology must comply with state and federal regulations and may be subject to more complex restrictions regarding the use of evidence acquired using UAS drone technology. Due to these challenges, this proposal emphasizes the need for a commitment to develop a UAS drone program that tracks, monitors, and guides the use of UAS drones in our daily operations.

The UAS drone program shall be led by a staff member who will:
- Maintain inventory of station-owned UAS drones and accessories - Coordinate the required federal licensure and training of UAS drone operators - Monitor, track, and report on deployments of UAS drones Commitment to licensure and training of patrol staff:

Piloting a UAS requires an individual to be licensed by the FAA. Lomita Sheriff’s Station must be committed to the training and licensure of patrol deputies assigned to pilot UAS drones. Rules and regulations surrounding the use of UAS drones are constantly evolving, and UAS drone pilots can be subject to new licensure and training requirements at any time. Lomita Sheriff’s Station should consider designating multiple deputies on every shift as UAS drone pilots to ensure the technology is widely available to support patrol operations as much as possible.

Acquisition of UAS drone technology:

The financing and purchase of UAS drone technology will allow Lomita Sheriff’s Station to commit to specific technologies and platforms specific to our needs. Technology such as thermal imaging and onboard spotlights may be necessary due to heavy foliage in our jurisdictions. Extended flight times, which come in the form of larger drones capable of carrying higher capacity batteries, may also be necessary due to the average durations (one hour or more) of critical incidents that occur in our jurisdictions.

C-4
Liability
Lomita Sheriff’s Station will purchase UAS drone technology which is currently approved by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department with the finances provided and donated by our four contract cities. The UAS drones will become the property of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Lomita Sheriff’s Station, which will assume all liabilities in case of any accident or damages to a person or property.

Upon acceptance by the County of Los Angeles, the donated unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) become the sole property of the County of Los Angeles and are assigned to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Lomita Station for official law enforcement purposes. The donor cities retain no ownership interest, possess no authority over the operation of the equipment, and do not participate in the deployment, supervision, maintenance, or operation of the UAS program.

The parties acknowledge that any funds contributed by the participating cities are voluntary donations for the purchase of equipment. Upon acceptance by the County of Los Angeles, title to all equipment shall vest exclusively in the County of Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department shall have exclusive authority regarding deployment, operation, maintenance, storage, supervision, and use of the equipment.

Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as creating a joint exercise of powers or joint operational responsibility for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems.

Department Policy and Legal Standards
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has created a new policy for the use of UAS drones. It can be viewed under the LASD Manual of Policy and Procedures 5- 09/570.15. The policy includes strict guidelines for public transparency, approved and prohibited uses (which prohibit the use of UAS drones for random surveillance), as well as deployment procedures.

Conclusion
This proposal outlines the many advantages of integrating UAS drone technology into Lomita Sheriff’s Station’s daily operations. The entry cost of UAS drones is at its lowest considering the rapid advancements in technology. The use of UAS drones presents an opportunity to employ alternative strategies during critical incidents and operations where other resources, such as K-9 and Aero Bureau, are unable to respond. Lomita Sheriff’s Station’s UAS drone program will be a large step forward into modern policing solutions that will aid the variety of challenges we are presented with in today’s climate.

C-5
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Pg. 1 / 7 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations
[POLICY APPLIES ONLY TO UNITS AUTHORIZED BY THE UAS
OPERATIONS UNIT]
Note: Authorization to operate a UAS underthis policy shall be granted and maintained solely by the UAS Operations Unit. Units willreceive formal written authorization priorto initiating any UASrelatedactivity.

Purpose
To establish guidelines for the safe, authorized, and effective use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) that are regulated under the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 107 or require a Certificate of Authorization. UAS can serve as a valuable resource to increase community and officer safety, act as a valuable de-escalation tool, reduce response times, provide enhanced situational awareness, and support personnel in the course of their duties, including the accurate reconstruction of complex traffic crashes and crime scenes.

The Sheriff will establish a Department-wide UAS Operations Unit, which will oversee overall management of UAS Operations, including:

Compliance with laws and policies;
Reporting usage to oversight bodies and the public website; Establishing training standards;
Acting as the liaison with the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB);
Developing and maintaining equipment standards;
All Department UAS shall meet technical specifications established by the UAS Operations Unit and may only be purchased, donated, or leased by organizations or contract cities in accordance with Department protocols. Donated or leased UAS equipment must be reviewed and approved by the UAS Operations Unit before acceptance or use.

All software, support systems, or ancillary equipment used in conjunction with Department UAS shall be reviewed and approved by the UAS Operations Unit before acceptance or use.

Overseeing the Safety Management System (SMS) and the UAS Management Software; Coordinating with individual Unit Commanders and their UAS Program Coordinators to ensure compliance with Department policies and placing restrictions on unit usage because of safety or risk management concerns;
Recommending program enhancements, particularly regarding safety, information security, and privacy protection;
D-1
•
•
•
•
•
0 0
•
•
•
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Pg. 2 / 7 Tracking data for mandated reporting requirements, measuring the effectiveness of the use of UAS to successfully resolve incidents and mitigate the risk of harm to officers, suspects, or the public, as well as an analysis of any complaints received about UAS deployments; Ensuring established protocols are followed;
Providing periodic reports on the program to the Undersheriff and Sheriff.

Conduct a yearly command inspection of all units authorized to conduct UAS operations Any Station, Unit, or Bureau wishing to establish a UAS program shall contact the UAS Operations Unit and follow its procedures for establishing a UAS program.

Definitions
Pursuant to Department guidelines and FAA regulations, the following definitions will be used in Unmanned AerialSystem operations.

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) - Operation of a UAS beyond the distance at which the remote pilot in command (RPIC) or visual observer (VO) can maintain unaided visual contact with the aircraft to ensure safe and effective control of the flight.

Controlled Airspace - An airspace of defined dimensions within which air traffic control (ATC) services are provided to Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flights and to Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flights in accordance with the airspace classification (FAA Class B, C, D, or E).

Drone as First Responder (DFR) - The use of a UAS, deployed as an initial responding unit to active calls for service, providing aerial support as an initial responding resource, real-time video, and tactical overwatch to responding field personnel.

Field Deployments - Situations in which a UAS is deployed by a UAS Operator while in the field.

Flight Supervisor - The on-duty Watch Commander, Incident Commander, or Unit Commander designated supervisor responsible for approving deployments consistent with this policy and reviewing mission outcomes.

Photogrammetry - The science of making measurements from photographs, typically producing maps, drawings, measurements, or 3D models.

Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC) - The certified personnel responsible for the safe and lawful operation of the UAS during deployment.

Safety Management System (SMS) - A structured framework designed to promote and ensure the safe operation of the Department’s UAS Program. SMS encompasses proactive and reactive strategies to analyze, identify, and mitigate hazards.

Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) - A UAS is an unmanned aerial system, including the equipment necessary for that aircraft’s safe and efficient operation. It is defined by statute as an aircraft that is operated D-2
•
•
•
•
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Pg. 3 / 7 without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.

UAS Department Program Commander – Personnel holding the rank of Lieutenant or above who is designated to oversee UAS Operations Department-wide.

UAS Program Coordinator - Personnel holding the rank of Sergeant or above who is designated to oversee the unit’s UAS operations.

UAS Operator - A trained, certified member of a patrol station or unit authorized to deploy and operate UAS for missions consistent with this policy.

UAS Management Software - Software used for managing, tracking, and maintaining the Department’s UAS fleet.

Visual Observer (VO) - A person who assists the RPIC in the duties associated with collision avoidance.

These duties include, but are not limited to, avoidance of other traffic, clouds, obstructions, and terrain.

Deployments
The UAS may be utilized to enhance the Department’s mission of protecting lives, preserving property, and supporting the collection of evidence. All Department UAS deployments shall be conducted in a manner that is consistent with the requirements and protections of the United States Constitution and the California State Constitution, and pursuant to all applicable laws and regulations.

The policy authorizes the deployment of UAS as an initial responding resource for any Department unit that has an established UAS Program. All UAS programs must be approved by the UAS Operations Unit. The UAS may be launched for real-time crime scene awareness, crime scene or traffic collision documentation, and tactical assessment prior to the arrival of ground units. The authority to deploy remains with the Flight Supervisor, who shall ensure compliance with this policy, including required reporting to the UAS Operations Unit. All UAS deployments shall be documented and reported to the UAS Operations Unit within 48 hours of deployment.

Specialized units, such as the Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB), Detective Division units, Emergency Operations Bureau (EOB), Scientific Services Bureau, and other non-patrol-based bureaus, may deploy UAS to support tactical, investigative, or emergency response operations. All deployments must comply with FAA regulations, Department UAS Program guidelines, and this policy. Use of a UAS by specialized units shall be incident-driven and must be approved by the designated Incident Commander overseeing the scene. UAS missions conducted for crime scene documentation, search and rescue, surveillance during exigent operations, or support of warrant service shall be documented and reported to the UAS Operations Unit within 48 hours of deployment.

The UAS flight crew (i.e., UAS Operator, RPIC, and VO) shall take reasonable precautions to avoid inadvertently recording or transmitting images of area(s) where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Reasonable precautions can include, for example, deactivating or turning imaging devices away from such areas or persons during UAS operations and when recording flights pursuant to this policy. However, when exigent circumstances exist, flight crews may adjust the imaging scope and its positioning as operationally necessary to address the emergency, while continuing to minimize unnecessary intrusion into private areas.

D-3
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Pg. 4 / 7 UAS deployments shall only be conducted by trained and certified personnel with the oversight of a Flight Supervisor or the UAS Operations Unit. All operations shall meet the following standards:

All UAS operators must be FAA-certified and complete Department-approved UAS training; All flights must adhere to regulations established by the FAA; and Deployments to monitor a pre-planned public event must be done with the approval of the unit’s Division Chief.

The Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) of a UAS is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that UAS.

NOTE: A UAS deployment alone does not constitute a response to a call for service (see MPP section 2- 06/030.05, Patrol Responsibility).

Prohibited Uses
Department UAS shall not:

Be used to unlawfully harass, intimidate, or discriminate against any individual or group; Be used to randomly surveil any member of the Department, of the public, or an area without a nexus to Public Safety;
Be used to record or photograph any First Amendment assemblies for the purpose of identifying participants who are not engaged in unlawful conduct;
Be conducted when conditions present an unreasonable risk observed by the RPIC at the time of the mission;
Be used for any personal business;
Be equipped with weapons or any form of less-lethal munitions, or any facial recognition software; and Be used in a manner or used with any software or added equipment that is contrary to any additional restrictions imposed by the Department-wide UAS Program Commander.

No Department member shall deploy a personally owned UAS while on duty.

Training and Certification
All UAS operators shall maintain a current FAA certification and complete the Department’s designated training course. UAS Operations Unit shall maintain records of certification, training, and flight hours for all operators. Training beyond the minimum required standards will be supported and encouraged.

Flights for the purposes of training or maintaining proficiency are allowed under this policy. All training flights D-4
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Pg. 5 / 7 must be logged.

Data Retention and Evidence
Absent exigent or unexpected circumstances, the UAS Program Coordinator shall ensure any UAS deployment and associated digital data (photos and video) are captured and retained in accordance with Department policy in the Department’s specified digital evidence management system (DEMS).

Recording
For deployments regarding real-time crime scene awareness and tactical assessment prior to the arrival of ground units, recording each incident shall begin at or near the scene of the incident and continue to record until the UAS leaves the location or the investigative or enforcement activity has ended. Unless necessary for safe operation, while in transit, UAS camera systems must be directed toward the horizon and may only be activated for recording at or near the incident scene. Safeguarding the privacy of the community is paramount. As such, RPICs are reminded that they shall take reasonable precautions to avoid inadvertently recording or transmitting images of areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.

For missions where the primary purpose is photography or photogrammetry, prior to or at the completion of an incident, video recording is not required.

Field Deployments
When deploying a UAS in the field, the UAS operator should consider the use of a VO when practical.

Deconfliction with manned aircraft is of paramount importance. The RPIC and VO are responsible for ensuring safe interactions.

UAS Program Coordinator Responsibilities
The UAS Program Coordinator shall:

Ensure their unit’s UAS fleet is properly maintained, and the equipment is inspected regularly, including applicable firmware and software updates to ensure privacy, security, and integrity of evidence; Ensure all maintenance is properly documented;
Ensure any personnel operating a UAS within their unit have successfully completed and maintained the proper certification and training;
Ensure a thorough weekly report of all required UAS usage data is maintained at the unit and submitted to the UAS Operations Unit; and
Ensure all reporting requirements pursuant to Department policy and Government Code 7070 et seq. are adhered to.

Accident Reporting
D-5
•
•
•
•
•
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Pg. 6 / 7 In the event the UAS is involved in a collision or accident, the UAS Operator shall immediately notify the Flight Supervisor and the FAA if applicable. It shall be the responsibility of the Flight Supervisor to make notifications to Aero Bureau, and UAS Operations Unit. The UAS Operations Unit shall be responsible for coordinating with the Aero Bureau for notifications to the FAA and NTSB as applicable.

A supervisor shall respond to the scene to ensure the procedures of an aircraft collision are followed. The supervisor shall also be responsible for documenting the collision in a detailed memorandum.

The detailed memorandum shall include photographs of the UAS, the surrounding environment, and any involved property. Supervisory personnel shall ensure the collection of statements from involved members of the public and witnesses, obtain identification of any civilians affected, and ensure preservation of relevant digital flight logs and data from the UAS. The supervisor will also obtain from the RPIC a summary of the mission type, conditions at the time of the incident, contributing factors, and any operational anomalies that occurred. The UAS Program Coordinator for the unit shall conduct a review of the incident, and a memo shall be submitted to the UAS Operations Unit detailing the collision.

Personnel involved in the operation of the UAS at the time of the collision shall provide a safety statement.

Including: location of collision, any potential immediate hazards (i.e., power lines or similar hazards), any potentially injured persons, and any damaged property.
**Incidents involving injury to non-employees, however minor, while on County property (owned or leased) must be reported on the Non-Employee Injury Form (SH-AD-668) and distributed as indicated on the form.

All UAS collisions that meet FAA-reportable thresholds—such as incidents involving serious injury, loss of consciousness, or property damage in excess of $500 (excluding the drone itself)—shall be reported by the RPIC to the FAA and the NTSB within ten calendar days, as required under 14 CFR Part 107. The UAS Operations Unit, in conjunction with Aero Bureau, will ensure this notification is completed by the RPIC as required. “Damage to CountyProperty” report shall also be completed and submitted to the Risk Management Bureau, consistent with Department policy for deputy-involved vehicle crashes. All documentation, including photos, witness statements, and internal reports, shall be retained by the UAS Operations Unit.

Use of UAS Owned or Operated by an Outside Agency
Personnel may request and utilize the UAS of an outside public safety agency when the Department’s operational needs warrant support and all the following conditions are met:

The deployment must comply with the standards, restrictions, and operational expectations outlined in the MPP, including the reporting of each deployment;
The use of an outside agency’s UAS must be authorized by the on-duty Watch Commander or Incident Commander and reported to the UAS Operations Unit within 48 hours of deployment; and A complete copy of any digital data collected by the outside agency’s UAS must be requested by LASD personnel. Any digital media must be retained in accordance with Department policy.

If the outside agency does not provide the material requested, it should be documented accordingly.

D-6
•
•
•
Manual of Policy and Procedures : 5-09/570.15 - Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Printed: 8/5/2026 (WEB) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Pg. 7 / 7 Reporting of Each Deployment
The operator of each UAS must report each deployment and use of the UAS. The reporting shall take place in the MilitaryEquipment Management System (MEMS), the electronic UAS system log. The electronic log will provide pertinent information, including the incident number, the time, location, UAS operator’s identifying information, the type of incident, and the results of the deployment.

Military Equipment Reporting
UAS devices are considered military equipment under California Government Code Section 7070 et seq., and require annual reporting on their use and involved costs. The UAS Operations Unit is responsible for collecting all inventory, procurement, recording costs, managing training requirements, and ensuring accurate reporting in the Department’s annual military equipment report.

Public Notification and Transparency
Before a station begins use of UAS pursuant to this policy, a community outreach plan shall be developed and implemented in collaboration with local stakeholders (e.g., a station’s Community Advisory Committee (CAC) or other community groups). Metrics evaluating flight time, response time reduction, evidentiary value, community satisfaction, and complaint trends shall be collected, consistent with the Department-wide UAS data collection efforts. Stations shall report their data in a timely manner in order to ensure that the monthly Department-wide data reports can be completed in a timely manner. Each station shall evaluate its individual metrics for program effectiveness at the station or unit level.

The UAS Operations Unit shall maintain a UAS dashboard on the Department’s Transparency Page, which will be updated regularly, but not less than monthly. This dashboard shall include information, including the number of flights, locations, and types of calls on all UAS deployments except for those related to ongoing investigations.

In addition, the Department will provide the Civilian Oversight Commission with an annual report summarizing UAS usage (including the number and type of situations in which UAS devices were used), the results and effectiveness of any deployments to mitigate the risk of harm to officers, suspects, or the public, the nature and number of any complaints received, and any policy exceptions. This report will also be posted on the Department’s website.

D-7