Kent Police Hero Drone and Dog Locate Missing Man in Freezing Woods
Kent Police’s high-tech drone squad pulled off a dramatic rescue in freezing conditions near Maidstone. A man in his 30s, suffering a mental health crisis, had wandered into dense woodland near Junction 8 on the M20, stripped to the waist in icy weather. Thanks to thermal imaging from a drone and the keen nose of Police Dog Oscar, the missing man was found and saved.
Drones Prove Game-Changers for Kent Police
In 2025 alone, Kent Police’s drones have become a vital tool. They tracked down 16 missing people, nabbed 58 suspected criminals, and recovered 22 stolen vehicles and property. Deployments hit a record high with over 1,100 flights, up from 999 in 2024. These flying gadgets help officers with crash scenes, public order incidents, and search warrants, giving police eyes in the sky for faster, safer police work.
How the Rescue Unfolded
On the chilly morning of 20 December, drone pilot PC Andy Green spotted a thermal heat signature deep in the woodland. He directed dog handler PC Toni Vaughan and Police Dog Oscar to the exact spot. The duo quickly found the man and brought him to safety. The rescued man spent several days in hospital and has since made a good recovery at home.
Police Praise Powerful Drone and Dog Partnership
“Drones have proven invaluable in life-or-death situations,” said Superintendent Nick Sparkes of Kent Police’s Tactical Operations. “Our skilled pilots work seamlessly with dog handlers and officers on the ground to provide top-level service at a fraction of the cost of a police helicopter. They remain a vital asset for Kent Police, helping catch crooks, solve crime, and keep Kent’s communities safe.”
