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1. Where can I find the ROAS policy?

The Bothell Police ROAS policy is available for anyone in the public to view.  In the policy handbook,  you'll find the ROAS policy under: " BPD 220 "

2. What steps are taken to protect the privacy of community members?

As expressly directed in the ROAS policy, members of the department will consider the privacy concerns of our community every time the ROAS is deployed.  

Here is an excerpt from the policy.

• When a ROAS is being flown, the onboard cameras will be operated so as to keep the area of interest in view and minimize inadvertent close up video or still images of uninvolved persons or property.
• All video recordings and still images will be maintained in compliance with Bothell Police Department policies and procedures as well as state law.  
• The Bothell Police Department ROAS unit will not be used to conduct random surveillance activities. 
• The Bothell Police Department will not subject images or videos from ROAS operations to facial recognition software.  

3. Who oversees the ROAS program?

The Chief of Police has the ultimate authority over the ROAS program. The Chief will appoint a division commander to manage the program. The division commander will appoint a Program Coordinator and they will manage the program, pilots, observers, and aircraft. Supervisors and pilots will make decisions regarding the deployment of the ROAS.

4. Does the Remotely Operated Ariel System (ROAS) use facial recognition?

The aircraft is equipped with a camera system capable of recording video and still image files. The aircraft does not have the capability to examine images using any sort of facial recognition software. Additionally, department policy does not allow for images or videos to be subjected to facial recognition processes.

5. How can I voice a concern or file a complaint involving operation of a ROAS?

The department has a robust complaint procedure in place.  Any person may call the department and ask to speak with the duty supervisor – 425.486.1254.  Or, any person can file a complaint/compliment online.

6. How is transparency addressed?

The department has the ROAS policy and the flight logs for operations posted on our website. Additionally, incidents involving the use of a ROAS are subject to the public disclosure laws.

Flight logs:  We are currently working with a flight data company to ensure flight logs can be accessed through our web page.  A public portal will be posted as soon as possible.  This flight data information will be available to the public, through our website without the need to file a public records request. 

7. Was the community involved in the planning of the ROAS program?

The department engaged on multiple occasions with the community during the development of the ROAS program.  The policy and procedures governing the ROAS program were shaped after a full review of the questions, comments, concerns, and suggestions by community members.  These engagement opportunities included:

• 2 “Conversations with the Chief” online forums where “drones” were the main focus of conversation
• 2 online forums that specifically addressed concerns, questions, comments, and suggestions for the ROAS program
• 1 Bothell Interfaith online forum that was specifically focused on the ROAS program and addressed  concerns, questions, comments, and suggestions for the program
• 1 presentation at the Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce
• Multiple conversations and online meetings with community members to address specific concerns

8. What does it mean when a specific address is shown on the flight log?

When a ROAS unit has been deployed to a particular area,  the flight log will simply pinpoint the nearest available address.  That address may have nothing to do with the reason for deployment or police response.  For example,  if a ROAS unit is assisting with a traffic-crash investigation, the flight log may show the address of the closest-available address in relation to the crash site.  

9. Can I see the flight log?

Yes!  The flight log is always available on our web page.  Learn more about how the flight log works,  and where to find the flight log.

10. Can I get more information about a specific flight shown on the flight log?

If you have more questions about a specific ROAS flight shown in the flight log, more information may be available through a public records request. If you have questions about how the flight log works,  please reach out to program coordinator Captain Mike Johnson.

11. What if I have other questions?

We'd like to hear from you, and are happy to answer any questions you may have.  Please contact Captain Mike Johnson.