Freeport police keep Tutty Baker Festival safe with a bird’s eye view

FREEPORT, Ill. (WTVO) — Police are using drones to keep the Tutty Baker Festival and many more festivals safe.

“Technology is always expanding and the city is always looking for ways to utilize different tools,” said Communications Director for the City of Freeport Bryan Bridge. “[The drones] shouldn’t be a bother to people who are coming to Tutty Baker Fest. In that case, if it’s helping law enforcement do their job and it’s not in your face, that’s a good thing.”

In June 2023, Governor JB Pritzker signed the Illinois Drones as First Responders Act into law, allowing drones to be used a events like these.

“That kind of technology where we can get up in the sky with a small drone and do stuff that will help the city in the future or even help it right now on the police side of things with law enforcement, it’s just a great thing,” said Bridge.

Those with the city are excited to use the devices as well. Drones may be used to protect, but they also can open doors to other opportunities as well.

“We’re utilizing it to highlight our city workers, whether it be their work on paving roads or more,” said Bridge. “We utilize it in a lot of different ways. So, at Tutty Baker Fest, if you see that drone, you can wave or you can completely ignore it. That’s the awesome thing about it. It’s so small. Hopefully, you won’t even realize it’s there.”

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