An organization concerned with civil liberties has asked Gaston County Police to explan how its using its drone.
American Civil Liberties Union chapters in North Carolina and 22 other states filed public records requests Thursday asking police agencies to explain how they are using drones. The requests in North Carolina include police departments in Burke, Cabarrus, Catawba, Gaston, Mecklenburg and Union counties.
Gaston County Police bought a drone several years ago.
The Monroe City Council agreed to spend $44,000 in drug forfeiture funds this week to buy a battery-powered mini-drone with a rotating infrared camera.
City officials in Monroe say detailed policies will be in place before they use the drone. Officials expect to use it at crime scenes, in searches or in case of natural disasters.