Janesville police drone detects heat signature of hiding felony suspect

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Janesville police use a drone to catch a felony suspect hiding by a shed.

Police released video footage of the drone using its heat signature sensors to find 30-year-old Ryan C. Weaver.

Deputy Chief Terry Sheridan says they only have one officer, Steve Carpenter, who is licensed to operate their drone.

Sheridan says police were investigating a retail theft last week when they realized Weaver was wanted for probation violation from a drug charge.

He eluded police until the drone detected his heat signature hiding between a house and a shed.

This was the first time the Janesville police department was able to use the drone to find a wanted suspect.

The drone also helps increase officer safety and cover more ground, including to help find missing persons.