A wanted felon was discovered napping in an attic after police deployed a sheriff’s drone to locate him during a Friday search in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, ending his brief attempt to evade arrest in an unusual hiding spot.

Officer Spots Fugitive’s Vehicle

An officer conducting a proactive patrol on March 13 recognized a vehicle registered to a man wanted on a felony warrant. The officer watched as the suspect exited the vehicle and entered a nearby residence. Police immediately began coordinating a search operation with the property owners’ full cooperation. The homeowners consented to allow law enforcement to search their premises for the fugitive, enabling officers to conduct a thorough examination of the property without requiring a warrant.

Drone Technology Locates Sleeping Suspect

Rather than conduct a potentially dangerous room-by-room search, Wheat Ridge police contacted the county sheriff’s office and requested a drone pilot. The specialized operator maneuvered the unmanned aircraft through the residence and successfully located the fugitive in the attic. Authorities reported the suspect appeared to be asleep when the drone discovered his location. Body camera footage captured an officer’s reaction as the man climbed down from his hiding place: “Weird place to take a nap,” the officer remarked. The suspect offered no resistance as he descended from the attic and was taken into custody.

Suspect Booked on Outstanding Warrant

Officers transported the man to jail where he was booked on the outstanding felony warrant. Police issued a statement confirming his arrest, adding with dry humor that the suspect could “get more rest” in his new accommodations. The successful operation demonstrated how modern technology enables law enforcement to locate suspects while minimizing risks to officers and occupants. The use of drones in police work has expanded significantly across Colorado and other states in recent years.

Growing Use of Drones in Law Enforcement

Police departments nationwide have increasingly adopted drone technology for surveillance, search operations, and tactical situations. The devices allow officers to safely assess dangerous situations, locate suspects in difficult terrain or structures, and gather evidence without putting personnel at risk. This case highlights the practical advantages of drone deployment in routine warrant service. The technology proved especially valuable in searching confined spaces like attics where suspects might hide, eliminating the need for officers to physically enter potentially dangerous areas before confirming a suspect’s presence and intentions.