An essential tool at the Santa Maria Police Department received a boost when donors provided thousands of dollars to help purchase a second drone.
The Santa Maria Police Council’s biggest annual fundraiser — a golf tournament, auction and comedy show — marked its 15th year in 2024.
Nearly 300 people showed up for the Friday night dinner and comedy show by Rocky LaPorte at the Santa Maria Country Club, which also hosted the golf tournament earlier for 140 golfers.
The department’s drone program ended up being one key beneficiary.
“The Santa Maria Police Department’s drone program has become an essential tool in the day-to-day operations of our department,” Chief Marc Schneider said.
The department regularly deploys small unmanned aircraft since it allows rapid deployment, tactical support, and real-time information.
“Drones provide support when searching for fleeing suspects, allowing ground units a greater ability to contain a suspect and prevent potentially dangerous structures,” Schneider said.
“Drones are used to search structures and various types of terrain, looking for suspects and clearing areas of concern, while providing crucial information that will improve overall operational effectiveness and situational awareness.”
The current drone has limited flight time before it needs to land for required battery replacement.
“This creates gaps in our aerial support and creates significant challenges,” he said, adding that the department hopes to purchase a second drone to avoid gaps in aerial coverage.
Auctioneer Jim Glines led the “fund a need,” eliciting donations from audience members so the agency can expand the done fleet to keep help police “keep the bad guys under control.”
The effort raised approximately $34,000 toward the expanded drone program, with individual donations spanning from $5,000 to $100.
That was only a portion of donations raised Friday night at the event, where Fifth District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino served as master of ceremony. The evening also included silent, live and dessert auctions.
Since forming in August 2007, the police council has raised more than $1,867,000 to fund needed equipment and training for the agency.
While the final numbers continued to be tallied, organizers say this year’s effort pushed them above the $2 million mark.
The funds have provided various items, including badge patches for the Police Department’s Explorer Program, K-9 units and K-9 training bite suits.
Last year’s event raised approximately $40,000 directed to equipment and supplies for the agency’s mounted enforcement unit.
The organization purchased a restored 1960 Chevrolet Biscayne patrol vehicle featuring a replica of the Police Department logo from the era. The vehicle has participated in several car shows and won awards, according to Police Council President Laurie Tamura.
Schneider thanked those in attendance for supporting the law enforcement agency’s members.
“It just gives us that recognition that what we do is important, and that you appreciate it,” Schneider said, adding that the support makes Santa Maria different from other communities. “And we feel that.”
While the funds help purchase equipment or training not covered by the city’s budget, Schneider contends the community support also remains valuable.
“I think that is equally important as the fundraising,” he said.