DFR finds domestic battery suspect hiding in woods

Synopsis

On August 1st, just after 5:00 AM, Lake County deputies were dispatched to a residence following a domestic disturbance. The suspect, later identified as Joshua High, fled the scene before deputies could take him into custody. Facing multiple charges—including simple battery, burglary with battery, deprivation of 911, and providing false information—he attempted to evade arrest by hiding in a nearby wooded area.

Deputies on Delta shift quickly deployed a Drone as First Responder (DFR) to locate him. From the air, the drone scanned the wood line and located the suspect. In a first-of-its-kind capability, the victim was able to view the live drone feed and positively identify the suspect in real time.

This immediate confirmation allowed deputies to move in with confidence, leading to a safe and efficient arrest. High was taken into custody and transported to the Lake County Jail without further incident. Without DFR, deputies would have faced a risky and time-intensive ground search in the dark. Instead, the combination of aerial intelligence and live victim identification ensured both safety and speed in resolving a dangerous domestic case.