Stalker & Kidnapper Found by Drones in Billings

I wonder if he felt like the hero in an action movie, pursued by the bad guys.  Problem is, he's the bad guy and the pursuers were police.

Cue up the music "Bad Boy, bad boy, whatcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do..."

Robert Canulli of Billings was apprehended very early Saturday morning after a 15-minute chase on the West End.

Canulli is wanted on a string of charges: Aggravated Kidnapping, Stalking, Felony Partner & Family Member Assault, Assault with a Weapon, Intimidation, Theft and the Destruction of a Communication Device.  Add in the Eluding, Obstructing and Resisting Arrest.  All this was before the latest manhunt.  Tack on a few more now.

Billings Police officers found Canulli in his car and tried a traffic stop which (no surprise) started the pursuit.  The county Sheriff's Department and the state Highway Patrol joined in the auto excitement, which ended with his empty vehicle in a field.

Just like with search and rescue, drones became the best tool in the dark.  Police knew Canulli abandoned the car, but in what direction?  So they launched some eyes in the sky with the special cameras and soon the man of the hour was found hiding nearby.  Custody was then easily taken.

New technology ensures responders' safety and effectiveness in a given situation.  Saves wear and tear on equipment and personnel.

Billings Police should produce live action videos of pursuits like that Cops show.  And include the drone footage that gives viewers that wonderful flying feeling.  I would tune in for that.

Lends new meaning to that early television slogan, "Smile, you're on Candid Camera."

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