Phoenixville Council Rejects Police Drone: Report

The Phoenixville borough council rejected a plan for the police department to get a drone on Tuesday night, according to a report.

The plan, supported by Mayor Michael Speck, was defeated by a vote of 5-3, Philly.com reports.

A donation was given to the borough police to purchase a drone in July, but council members had concerns about privacy and expressed doubts as to its need.

Phoenixville borough councilman expressed his thoughts on Facebook Wednesday regarding his vote against the proposal:

Last night, myself and four other council members rejected the idea of giving the Phoenixville Police Department a surveillance drone. However, the Mayor, and Chief Mossman both claimed there shouldn’t be any problems with the PPD having a drone and that it could potentially save lives. My concerns were privacy, insurance, and the perception to me of the general public being against it lead to my decision.

The issue will reportedly be brought up again next year when new council members are sworn in.