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Ramapo Police Department Launches Groundbreaking Drone Program As First Responder In Rockland County

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11 months ago

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Ramapo, NY – Supervisor Michael Specht and Police Chief Dan Hyman are proud to announce the launch of the Ramapo Police Department’s innovative Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program, making the department the first and only law enforcement agency in Rockland County to implement an FAA-approved DFR initiative. This cutting-edge program is designed to enhance public safety and operational efficiency, providing a new tool for law enforcement to protect both first responders and the community.
The DFR program, managed by the Ramapo Police Department, consists of two Paladin Drone Base Stations, equipped with remotely operated drones. The primary goal of the program is to act as a “force multiplier,” enabling officers to quickly gather critical situational data during emergency responses, improving decision-making in real-time. This technology allows for rapid aerial assessments of complex or hazardous environments, which can be crucial in high-stakes situations.
“As we continue to explore new ways to enhance public safety, the Drone as a First Responder program stands out as a major advancement,” said Supervisor Michael Specht. “This program is not only a first for Ramapo but also for Rockland County, and it underscores our commitment to bringing the latest technology to our law enforcement efforts.”
The integration of drones into emergency response efforts allows for faster identification of potential threats or hazards that may not be visible from the ground. The aerial views provided by the drones will assist in a variety of critical situations, including locating missing persons, tracking suspects, and providing live situational awareness during active emergencies, all of which contribute to faster response times and better outcomes.
“Our top priority is the safety of our officers and the community. With the DFR program, we now have the ability to gather essential information quickly and efficiently, which will greatly improve our response in emergency situations,” said Chief Dan Hyman of the Ramapo Police Department. “This technology will not only enhance our operational capacity but will also lead to better, more informed decision-making in the field.”
The introduction of the DFR program is part of the Ramapo Police Department’s broader efforts to remain at the forefront of law enforcement technology, improving both community safety and public service delivery. The department will continue to explore innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of law enforcement and enhance its capabilities.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Haverstraw Police Conduct Proactive Credit Card Skimming Inspections Across Village

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2 hours ago

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January 20, 2026

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HAVERSTRAW, N.Y. — The Haverstraw Police Department, working in partnership with investigators from the Rockland County Intelligence Center, conducted a proactive operation Tuesday aimed at preventing fraud and identity theft within the community.

The operation took place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, and focused on businesses with publicly accessible credit card machines. Detectives and Community Resource Officers visited all gas stations in the village, along with numerous convenience stores and other retail locations where skimming devices could potentially be installed.

Using specialized skimming detection equipment, officers inspected more than 130 credit card machines throughout the Village of Haverstraw. Police reported that no credit card skimming devices were found during the inspections.

“These proactive inspections are about staying ahead of criminal activity and protecting our residents and business owners before they become victims,” said Haverstraw Police Chief John Gould Jr. “We will not sit back and wait for crimes to occur or for our residents to be victimized.”

Chief Gould emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and advanced technology in preventing financial crimes, thanking Rockland County Sheriff Louis Falco for helping make specialized detection tools available to police departments throughout the county.

By using these tools, Chief Gould said, local agencies can take meaningful steps to deter fraud and prevent crimes before they occur.

Business owners who would like their credit card machines checked for potential skimming devices are encouraged to contact the Haverstraw Police Department at 845-354-1500.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Rockland County Sheriff Dispatchers Help Deliver Baby Girl During 9-1-1 Call in Spring Valley

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1 day ago

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January 19, 2026

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SPRING VALLEY, N.Y. — A Rockland County Sheriff’s Communications Division dispatcher helped guide new parents through the successful delivery of their baby girl during an early-morning emergency call on Sunday, January 11.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, a 20-year-old expectant mother went into active labor at home when the baby began to arrive before first responders could reach the scene. At approximately 4:31 a.m., the baby’s father dialed 9-1-1 and reported that the infant’s head was already visible.

James Sheridan, a Radio Operator I with the Rockland County Sheriff’s Communications Division, immediately took the call and calmly coached both parents through the delivery process. Following his instructions, the parents were able to safely deliver their daughter moments before police and emergency medical personnel arrived.

Spring Valley Police Department officers, Spring Hill Community Ambulance Corps, and Rockland Paramedic Services arrived on scene approximately six minutes later. The newborn baby girl and her mother were transported to Montefiore Nyack Hospital, where both were reported to be doing well.

Sheriff’s officials praised Sheridan’s actions, noting that he and all county radio operators are highly trained Emergency Medical Dispatchers (EMDs), certified by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED). Dispatchers regularly assist callers during a wide range of medical emergencies, providing critical instructions until help arrives.

Officials congratulated the new parents and highlighted the incident as an example of how teamwork between dispatchers and first responders helps protect and serve Rockland County residents.

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