Waukegan police are putting drones through their paces to decide whether the flying machines will become a part of the department’s law enforcement arsenal.
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The department is test-flying two drones as part of the Drone as First Responder (DFR) program.
During the test period, an officer who is FAA-certified will decide whether to launch the drones in response to calls for service.
“This trial will allow the Waukegan Police Department to evaluate the capabilities and effectiveness of DFR technology in a real-world setting and determine the feasibility of implementing a permanent program in the future,” WPD said in a social media post.
The drones are placed on a rooftop in a weather-safe housing and can be quickly deployed in the event of an emergency. The aircraft can often arrive ahead of officers, and their onboard cameras can relay important information to police.
Officers can use the real-time information to decide what resources are appropriate for a given situation. They can also help police more quickly determine false alarms, making police more efficient, the department said.
Gurnee police launched its drone-as-first-responder program about a year ago.
Accused softball coach turns self in
The man accused of sexually abusing a girl whom he was coaching has turned himself in to authorities, Vernon Hills police said this week.
Eduardo “Eddie” Acosta-Gonzalez, 54, with the assistance of his attorney, surrendered to Vernon Hills police on Aug. 31. He was transferred to the custody of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Lake County prosecutors successfully obtained a court order to have him detained as he awaits trial, according to court records.
He is charged with inappropriately touching a 12-year-old girl at a Vernon Hills sports performance facility earlier this year and is charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse. Acosta-Gonzalez was giving private coaching in softball to the girl, police said.
Police said they are investigating whether Acosta-Gonzalez had inappropriate contact with any other athletes with whom he worked. Those wishing to report suspicious or criminal activity are asked to contact the Vernon Hills Police Department Investigations Division at (847) 918-5605 or via email at [email protected].
Zion fire
Zion firefighters extinguished a house fire early Wednesday, and the residents were able to escape the blaze.
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No one was hurt, although two cats were missing, authorities said.
The fire was reported at about 6:10 a.m. in the 1500 block of Wilson Court. Firefighters saw heavy black smoke while still blocks away and immediately signaled for additional help from surrounding departments. About 10 other departments responded to provide aid, Zion officials said.
The residents were outside and accounted for at the time firefighters arrived. The fire was put out in about 30 minutes, and firefighters remained on scene until around 9 a.m. to ensure the fire was extinguished.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage to the structure and contents was estimated at $250,000.
‘Bingo Patrol’
Round Lake Beach police will host “Bingo Patrol,” a Sept. 12 morning of bingo for kids ages 5-12.
The bingo begins at 9 a.m. at the RLB Cultural & Civic Center and goes to 11 a.m. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
In addition to winning prizes at bingo, kids will get to meet local police and K-9 Dez. Registration is required, and the link to sign up can be found on the Round Lake Beach Police Facebook page.