On October 26, Kissimmee police responded to an urgent call about a domestic disturbance involving a man identified as Andre Janard Smithson. Family members warned that children were trapped inside the residence and feared for their safety.

Drone technology provides critical eyes on the scene

Rather than entering the home blind, officers deployed a police‑owned drone to survey the exterior and gather visual intelligence. The drone’s live video feed revealed a back room where the children were hiding. In a heartbreaking moment, one child pressed a handwritten note against a bedroom window that read, “HELP US.” The clear visual confirmation gave officers the confidence to act.

Children safely evacuated

While Smithson remained distracted inside the house, police officers coordinated a careful extraction. The children slipped out of the home and were escorted to safety by responding officers. Once the minors were secured, the department’s SWAT team and crisis negotiators moved in to surround the property and begin dialogue with the suspect.

Suspect surrenders without resistance

After a brief negotiation, Smithson exited the house voluntarily and surrendered to law enforcement without further incident. He was taken into custody on a charge of false imprisonment, along with an active warrant that had previously been issued for him. Police have not disclosed the details of the prior warrant or the exact number of children involved.

Community reassurance and police preparedness

The successful resolution of this dangerous situation underscores the value of modern policing tools and the dedication of Kissimmee’s law‑enforcement professionals. By leveraging drone technology, officers were able to protect vulnerable children while minimizing risk to both the public and the officers themselves.

Local officials praised the swift, coordinated response and reminded residents that the police department remains committed to safeguarding families throughout the city. The department encourages anyone with information about potential threats or domestic violence situations to contact law enforcement immediately.

Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.