Baton Rouge Police Chief T.J. Morse says technology and recruitment remain top priorities as the department works to improve public safety across the city. During a recent appearance on Talk 107.3, Morse highlighted the department’s growing drone program and discussed efforts to attract more officers to the force.
Drones Becoming a Key Police Tool
Morse described drones as a major force multiplier for law enforcement. The Baton Rouge Police Department currently uses several types of drones, ranging from small units that assist SWAT teams during high-risk operations to larger aircraft used for special events and citywide monitoring. Officers can deploy many of these drones directly from patrol vehicles, allowing them to quickly locate suspects, search for missing persons, and assess active situations.
The department is also exploring a “Drone as First Responder” model. Under this concept, drones stationed throughout the city could launch automatically when calls come in, providing officers with real-time information before they arrive on scene. Morse said the department has studied similar programs around the country and believes the technology represents the future of policing. Funding remains the biggest hurdle.
New Crime-Fighting Partnership Proposed
Morse also discussed a proposal headed to the Metro Council that would create a new task force center inside BRPD headquarters. The project would renovate unused space and bring together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies focused on gun violence, gang activity, and violent crime. Homeland Security Investigations would provide nearly $1.2 million for the effort.
Recruitment Numbers Trending Up
The chief reported strong recruiting momentum following recent pay increases. A recent lateral academy attracted 19 applicants from other law enforcement agencies, a significant increase from previous classes. BRPD hopes to start a new academy in January with approximately 40 recruits. Morse encouraged anyone interested in law enforcement to begin the application process now as background checks and physical assessments take time.