Texas Schools to Deploy Non-Lethal Drones for Safety

In a groundbreaking initiative, Campus Guardian Angel, a U.S. startup, is set to introduce non-lethal drones into schools across Texas. These drones are designed to respond rapidly to potential threats posed by armed individuals within educational institutions.

The alarming rise in school shootings in the United States has prompted this innovative approach. Over the past three years, more than 1,000 incidents of gun violence have been reported in schools, a staggering increase compared to the previous decade. Tragically, these incidents have resulted in approximately 800 injuries or fatalities, with one in five students having encountered gun violence in their educational environment.

Equipped with pepper spray and flashbangs, these drones aim to incapacitate potential attackers swiftly. They can also provide critical information and support to law enforcement during emergencies by scouting ahead and relaying real-time data.

In Texas, where armed security personnel are already mandated in schools, the introduction of these drones represents a shift in security strategy. The startup believes that relying solely on human security is insufficient and that these drones can enhance safety measures significantly. A legislative proposal, House Bill 462, has been introduced by Republican Representative Ryan Guillen to facilitate the implementation of this system, which could also reduce the financial burden of maintaining security staff in schools.

Current regulations under the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 prohibit the arming of drones with lethal weapons. However, the law does allow for the use of non-lethal arms designed not to cause severe injury or death. Given that these drones will operate indoors, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has limited jurisdiction. Nonetheless, Campus Guardian Angel is in discussions with the FAA to ensure compliance with federal and local laws regarding their operation in schools.

Addressing potential liability issues is also a priority for the company. They are working to clarify under what circumstances these drones can be deployed and who would assume responsibility for their actions--whether private security personnel or sworn police officers affiliated with Campus Guardian Angel.

Proponents of the drone system argue that its presence could be pivotal in saving lives. Statistics indicate that a significant number of casualties occur within the first two minutes of a shooting incident. With drones capable of immediate deployment, they could intervene before law enforcement arrives on the scene.

If successful in Texas, Campus Guardian Angel plans to expand this initiative to other states, contingent upon the modification or adaptation of relevant laws. The company has already demonstrated the basic functionality of its drone system through a pilot project in partnership with local education authorities and law enforcement in Boerne, Texas.