Sacramento cops deploy incredible new tactic to disarm violent maniac using a drone

California deputies have pulled off what they say is a nationwide first — using a drone equipped with a magnet to disarm an armed suspect before moving in to make an arrest.The dramatic encounter unfolded in Sacramento County earlier this month after deputies tracked down a parolee-at-large wanted on felony charges who was believed to be armed.Members of the agency’s Special Enforcement Detail, or SWAT unit, surrounded the man’s residence after learning he had been seen carrying a firearm, according to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office.Negotiators tried unsuccessfully to make contact, prompting deputies to deploy a small drone inside the home to assess the situation.Footage released by the department shows the drone slowly navigating the dimly lit interior before spotting the suspect sprawled in the corner of a cluttered garage.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story The man lay motionless on the floor, one arm tucked beneath his body while the other clutched a knife.Deputies said it was unclear whether he was unconscious, pretending to be incapacitated or waiting to ambush officers who entered the room.Rather than risk a close-quarters confrontation, one of the drone operators proposed an unconventional idea.The deputy attached a powerful magnet to the drone and carefully maneuvered the aircraft toward the suspect’s hand.Video shows the drone hovering inches above the blade before the magnet latches onto the weapon and lifts it free.Once the knife was safely removed, deputies moved in and took the man into custody without further incident.“In a nationwide first, a drone was successfully used to disarm an armed suspect, helping bring the incident to a safe resolution,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement released alongside the...