Police use of drones questioned

Drones are being used by police in canton Thurgau to catch speeders – but it may be illegal.

One man is fighting to keep his driving licence after being allegedly spotted speeding at 175 kph in an 80 zone. 

But the man’s lawyer says the evidence from a drone is not admissible in court. 

He told the Blick newspaper it’s illegal as the drone is not calibrated, unlike speed cameras on the street – and there’s no formal training on how to handle the drone to catch speeders.

It seems the canton is unique in using drones. Thurgau police admit they are pioneering the technique – and a spokesman for the Conference of Cantonal Police Commanders says they’re unaware of any other force using drones. 

If the accused man wins his case – it could mean an end to the drone experiment. 

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