On December 23, 2023, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) showcased the effective utilization of drone technology by successfully locating a missing 78-year-old man with early onset dementia who wandered away from his Malibu home. The elder was reported missing after he had left to check his mail at around 4:30 PM but failed to return, which prompted immediate concern from his family and friends.
The situation escalated when the report was made to authorities via 911 at approximately 7:30 PM PST, whereupon deputies were called to search for the elderly resident. The onset of nightfall and falling temperatures, which dropped to 48°F (8.9°C), created urgency for the search operation. More than just a law enforcement challenge, this incident highlighted the very real risks inherent for vulnerable individuals such as those suffering from cognitive disorders.
To expedite the search, the department deployed thermal-equipped unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) as part of their new operational capabilities. These drones, increasingly integrated within public safety protocols, utilize advanced thermal imaging technology to detect heat signatures, which can dramatically reduce search times.
According to ABC News, within 80 minutes of the initial call, the UAS located the missing man lying motionless about 0.25 miles from his home, ensnared within dense brush. Despite sustaining only minor abrasions likely from a fall, he was otherwise stable and quickly transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
The successful outcome of this operation serves to solidify the LASD’s commitment to integrating technology within standard operating procedures. Since the establishment of the department’s drone program in 2017, there has been substantial growth and utilization. Records indicate drones have been deployed nearly 60 times for various missions throughout 2024, with 12 of these classified as Search and Rescue operations.
The potential life-saving capabilities demonstrated by the agency appealed greatly to search and rescue teams, as illustrated by the Malibu Search and Rescue Team’s social media post: "This UAS deployment proved the incredible value these newly adopted tools provide for our search and rescue operations." By leveraging thermal technology under increasingly advanced systems, authorities are paving the way for dramatic improvements during time-sensitive scenarios.
But this incident isn’t merely about modern technology; it’s about ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations, particularly seniors experiencing cognitive challenges. Such individuals face numerous risks if they become disoriented or lost, and exposure to cold temperatures could lead to severe health complications. Experts advocate for maintaining readiness for nighttime operations with drones, especially as jurisdictions increasingly confront aging populations or difficult terrains.
With the recent rescue fresh on everyone’s minds, advocates are likely to push for broader adoption of drone technologies across public safety departments nationwide. Drones now represent not just supplementary tools but fundamental enhancements to operational capacity, especially concerning elderly care.
While this successful operation adds to the growing reputation of LASD as leaders in employing drone technologies, it also signals broader trends within law enforcement, reflecting on how aerial capabilities can be transformational for real-world applications.
The incident serves as both inspiration and caution, pleading authority focused on the importance of integrating new technologies to support their missions effectively. Needs will continue to grow as populations age, reminding us of the fragile nature of life and the importance of rapid, effective search and rescue operations. The advancement of thermal imaging and drone technology will take center stage as local and national law enforcement investigates solutions to continue making strides forward.
Photos courtesy of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
