Suffolk County has recently launched high-tech initiatives aimed specifically at ending high-speed chases, which often pose a significant danger to the public. As of April 2026, the primary tool being deployed is the **StarChase GPS system**, alongside an expanded drone program.
Here is the breakdown of the new technology Suffolk County is using to catch fleeing drivers:
## 1. StarChase GPS "Darts"
In April 2026, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office became the first in the county to pilot the **StarChase** system. This technology allows officers to track a suspect without having to maintain a dangerous high-speed pursuit.
* **How it works:** A compressed-air launcher mounted on the grille of a police cruiser fires an adhesive GPS tag (the "dart") at a fleeing vehicle.
* **The Result:** Once the tag sticks, the officer can drop back and stop chasing. Dispatch then tracks the vehicle's real-time location, speed, and direction on a map.
* **The "Swoop" Arrest:** Police wait until the driver thinks they have successfully escaped and comes to a stop. Officers then move in to make the arrest while the suspect is stationary and unsuspecting.
* **Success Rate:** Officials report an **85% success rate** for this technology in other jurisdictions for offenses ranging from DWIs to stolen vehicles.
## 2. "Drones as First Responders" (DFR)
The Suffolk County Police Department has also expanded its drone program to assist in pursuits. By late 2025 and into 2026, drones have been integrated into precinct operations.
* **Aerial Tracking:** Drones can be deployed instantly to follow a fleeing vehicle from the air. They are equipped with high-powered zoom lenses (up to 128x) that can capture license plates and suspect descriptions from a safe distance.
* **Tactical Advantage:** By using "virtual pursuit" via drone, ground units can coordinate roadblocks or follow-up arrests without engaging in the "cowboy" style high-speed chases that lead to accidents.
## 3. Expanded ALPR Network (Flock Safety)
Suffolk County has significantly increased its network of **Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs)**.
* **Total Coverage:** The county recently increased its number of Flock Safety cameras from 25 to 60 in strategic locations.
* **Instant Alerts:** These cameras are linked to a database that instantly alerts patrol cars if a vehicle associated with a crime or a "fleeing" incident passes a camera, allowing police to "bridge the gap" if they lose sight of a driver.
> **Note:** These programs are largely funded by New York State law enforcement grants. While the Sheriff’s Office is currently the lead on the StarChase pilot, the technology is expected to be adopted by the broader Suffolk County Police Department if the trial remain
s successful.
>
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