HANFORD, Calif. , A Hanford Police drone helped officers locate and arrest a burglary suspect early Saturday morning after a reported break-in at a downtown business.
According to a press release from the Hanford Police Department, officers responded at about 2:06 a.m. on June 6 to a report of a burglary in progress at a business in the 100 block of South Douty Street.
When officers arrived, they found signs of forced entry and damage to a skylight that had been shattered, giving access to the roof area.
Hanford Police Drone Used During Response
The department’s Drone as First Responder, also known as DFR, was deployed during the response. Police said the Hanford Police drone helped locate a male suspect on the roof, where he was seen carrying what appeared to be a metal pipe or hammer and striking the roof.
The drone gave officers real-time aerial information, allowing them to confirm the suspect’s location and set up a safer perimeter.
Police later identified the suspect as 21-year-old Ethan Valdez. Officers repeatedly ordered Valdez to come down from the roof, but police said he did not comply. He continued moving across the rooftop for more than 30 minutes while officers worked to resolve the situation safely.
The incident included assistance from allied agencies, including K-9 support from the Lemoore Police Department and the Kings County Sheriff’s Office.
Valdez was eventually taken into custody after coming down from the roof. He was later transported for medical treatment and booked into Kings County Jail on charges related to burglary, vandalism, and resisting or obstructing an officer.
Drone as First Responder Program
The Hanford Police Department said its Drone as First Responder program uses remotely piloted drones to respond to emergency calls and critical incidents, often arriving before ground units.
The drones provide real-time aerial video to officers and supervisors, helping improve situational awareness, officer safety, and decision-making.
Police said the program is intended to support patrol operations, help locate suspects or victims more quickly, and assist in resolving incidents safely with the least amount of force necessary.
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Francisco Ramirez
Francisco Ramirez Jr. is the founder of Kings Network News and creator of Kings Network Business, a platform focused on community engagement, local business support, and digital media innovation across California’s Central Valley.
A former Mayor of Hanford, California, Ramirez launched the popular Winter Wonderland event and brings more than 20 years of experience in business consulting, media strategy, marketing, and entrepreneurship. He is also a motivational speaker, strategist, author, podcaster, and experienced web and graphic designer.
Ramirez created The Invisible Kid: Courage to Succeed, an anti-bullying and self-esteem seminar that has inspired youth throughout the region. Through journalism, consulting, and community-driven projects, he continues working to inform, inspire, and empower others to grow, lead, and make a positive impact.
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