Over the past four days, eight deputies from the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office successfully completed an advanced Unmanned Aircraft Systems (aUAS) drone training course, enhancing the agency’s operational capabilities in modern law enforcement.
The training was conducted by Retired U.S. Marine Corps Major Bryan Sprankle of the Public Agency Drone Association and held on the grounds of the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center. The course included both classroom instruction and practical flight exercises—featuring daytime and nighttime missions using advanced FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) technology.
Drones have become an increasingly vital tool in public safety efforts across Louisiana and the United States. The completion of this course ensures that NPSO deputies are prepared to support a wide range of law enforcement operations from the air.
“We are pleased that Sheriff Stuart Wright authorized this important training,” said NPSO Major Jonathan Byles. “These eight certified deputies are now equipped to deploy drones during crime scene investigations, accident reconstructions, missing persons searches, SWAT operations, and other critical incidents.”
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office continues to invest in technology and training that enhances its ability to protect and serve the community effectively.
NPSO Deputies completing the training were: Lt B. Dalme, Lt. B. Smith, Sgt. K. Padilla, Cpl. N. Kerby, Deputy B. Hamilton, Sgt. E. Mogridge, Lt. M. Giannone and Deputy S. Dieter. Chief Deputy D. Winder attended the certificate promotion.
Major Sprankle said that he was proud of the dedication and hard work of all the participants in this training class.”
