The drone unit in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department this week demonstrated technology that combats crime during a meeting with the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, KSNV 3 reported.

The Las Vegas Asian American Pacific Islander Association called for the meeting after almost three dozen businesses near Chinatown experienced break-ins.

Las Vegas police arrested a suspect, Cedric Hasan, after a three-month investigation.

Police say the drone tech can be used to fight crime and find suspects during various scenarios, such as shoplifting and police chases. Las Vegas police had used the tech to arrest a running suspect last week.

“Patrol officers attempted to apprehend a suspect, but he took off from them on foot,” said Officer Jordan Pelley in an interview with Fox 5. “We were able to launch the drone and find him walking in the neighborhood, and patrol officers were able to take him into custody.”

Pelley also said the department is looking into potentially adding a feature where police can speak to suspects through the drone.

Colin Fukunaga, owner of local restaurant Fukuburger, told KSNV 3 that he believes the drones and their effectiveness will deter people from committing crimes.

“Those are the things we need as a deterrent for the criminals to understand that they are always under surveillance and it’s hard to get away with crimes just like this last guy who thought he could get away with it,” Fukunaga said.

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