New Drone To Boost Emergency Response In Waterford

WATERFORD, CT — Dominion Energy has donated a new, U.S.-manufactured drone to the Waterford Police Department, according to a statement from the company.

The drone, equipped with advanced technology, is expected to bolster the department’s capabilities in situations such as missing person searches, hazardous scene surveys and tactical operations. It may also assist in emergency scenarios at Millstone Power Station, which Dominion operates.

“Millstone and the Waterford Police Department work side-by-side in our shared mission to keep the community safe,” Susan Adams, Dominion Energy’s director of state policy, said in a statement.

The donation comes as Connecticut lawmakers consider legislation to restrict use of drones produced by foreign entities, making the U.S.-made model a forward-looking choice.

Police Chief Marc Balestracci welcomed the contribution, calling the drone “an essential resource for both routine operations and high-stakes emergencies.”

Millstone regularly trains with law enforcement agencies and highlighted drone use during a hostile action exercise in April 2024.

The donation continues Dominion Energy’s pattern of partnering with local agencies to support public safety in southeastern Connecticut.