Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies announced Tuesday that they successfully apprehended a wanted suspect at the Cornelius Walmart using a drone to locate him after a shoplifting incident.
Background of the incident
According to the sheriff’s office, Troy Hardee of Forest Grove was identified as a suspect in a shoplifting case at the Walmart located in Cornelius, Oregon. Hardee left the store on a bicycle while carrying the stolen items, prompting deputies to initiate a search for the individual, who also had an outstanding arrest warrant.
Use of drone technology
Deputies launched a drone equipped with a camera to aid in the search. The aerial footage captured Hardee riding his bicycle onto abandoned railroad tracks near the store. The drone’s real‑time view allowed officers to pinpoint his location quickly, demonstrating the growing role of technology in public‑safety operations.
Arrest and processing
After the drone located Hardee, deputies moved in and engaged in a short foot chase. Hardee surrendered without further incident and was taken into the Washington County jail to face charges related to the shoplifting and the outstanding warrant.
Community impact
The swift resolution of the case underscores the department’s commitment to protecting local businesses and maintaining public safety in the Cornelius area. Residents expressed appreciation for the deputies’ use of innovative tools to keep the community secure.
Official statement
“We are pleased to have safely apprehended Mr. Hardee and to have demonstrated how modern technology can assist our officers in protecting the public,” said a spokesperson for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. “Our priority remains the safety of our citizens and the integrity of local businesses.”
The sheriff’s office encourages anyone with information about ongoing criminal activity to contact the department promptly.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
