GALION, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Galion Police Department successfully apprehended a suspect wanted in connection with a domestic violence incident, employing an innovative combination of drone technology and canine assistance.

Officers responded to reports of domestic violence and a violation of a court order at a local residence.
Upon arrival, they discovered that the suspect had fled the scene and was believed to be in hiding nearby. To enhance their search efforts and ensure public safety, the police deployed a drone to assist in locating the individual from above while allowing officers to maintain situational awareness.

The drone operator quickly spotted the suspect attempting to evade capture by concealing himself in a wooded area.

With real-time information relayed from the aerial surveillance, police officers and deputies from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office were able to establish a containment perimeter and deployed K-9 Basco for a targeted search of the area.

The combined efforts of the drone and K-9 unit proved effective, leading to the swift location and apprehension of the suspect.

The Galion Police Department expressed appreciation for the community partners whose generous donations facilitated the establishment of the drone program and K-9 unit, enhancing the department’s capabilities in ensuring public safety while minimizing risks for officers, suspects, and the community. They also acknowledged the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office for their support and cooperation during the operation.

For those interested, video footage capturing the arrest will be available on the Galion, Ohio Police Department’s Facebook page, demonstrating the effective use of drones and K-9 resources in this recent incident. The video has been edited for brevity and clarity.