The King County Sheriff’s Office will permanently retain its $17 million counter-drone system following its successful deployment during the FIFA World Cup, with officials planning to use the technology to secure future large-scale events across Washington.
During Seattle’s six World Cup matches, law enforcement seized 42 drones that violated temporary flight restrictions around the stadium.
Authorities said deputies worked alongside federal agencies, using radar and radio-frequency detection systems to locate unauthorized drones before tracking down their operators on the ground.
The federally funded system includes advanced drone detection equipment for the King County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington State Patrol.
Officials say it will continue to be used to protect concerts, sporting events, parades and other major public gatherings across the region.
Sheriff’s Office officials said the technology strengthens public safety while improving coordination between local, state and federal agencies during high-profile events.
