With thousands expected to flock to the city this March, Miami Beach’s crackdown on spring break continues. In addition to the tough measures being implemented this year — from traffic restrictions to steep parking fees — city police are rolling out new drone technology to keep an eye on crowds.
The Miami Beach Police Department unveiled the Skydio X10 drone, the first of its kind in Florida, which gives officers an aerial view of anywhere in the city within a minute of launching. This eye in the sky will be deployed along the beach during high-impact spring break weekends, where it can relay emergency information to officers at their Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC).
“Miami Beach is at the forefront of pioneering technology to revolutionize public safety,” Mayor Steven Meiner said in a press release. “The Real Time Intelligence Center and Drone as a First Responder Program equip our police department with exceptional tools, ensuring swift and decisive action to protect our community.”
Officials state that the city is the first in Florida and one of just five in the country to implement the Skydio drone as a First Responder Program. Along with integrating over 850 cameras that provide over 1,600 views across the city, the RTIC will also monitor license plate readers, marine coastal activity and detect social media threats.
The move comes as the city has launched its “Miami Beach Spring Break Reality Check” campaign, warding off rowdy visitors and reinforcing the message that it is not interested in being a party destination. Similar to last year’s “Break up with Spring Break” campaign, you can find a full list of spring break rules Miami Beach has implemented this year, here.