Tactical Teams Use Specialized Drone Technology to Apprehend Hiding Fugitive Following Violent Domestic Dispute in Dublin

Pulaski County deputies used drones to locate James William Hanshaw Jr. after a domestic violence incident. The suspect was found hiding in a residential attic.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 17, 2026, 4:23 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from WDBJ7

High Stakes Standoff in Pulaski County

Law enforcement operations intensified in the Dublin area on Monday as deputies tracked a fugitive wanted for a series of violent offenses. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence located in the 5000 block of Cooks Lane after receiving information regarding the whereabouts of a suspect with a dangerous criminal history. Upon arrival, deputies established a secure perimeter around the property, ensuring that the individual could not flee before tactical units could arrive. The operation was initiated following reports of recent domestic instability that posed a threat to local residents.

Surveillance and Drone Overwatch Strategies

The apprehension was marked by the heavy use of modern surveillance technology to minimize risk to the responding officers. While ground units maintained the exterior line, drone pilots were deployed to provide constant overwatch of the entire perimeter. This aerial perspective allowed commanders to monitor all potential exit points and identify any movement within the yard. The use of unmanned systems has become a standard safety protocol for the department when dealing with individuals known to have a history of felony assault and battery.

Tactical Entry and Interior Search

Shortly after 4 p.m., a specialized tactical team executed a search warrant obtained for the residence. Before human teams entered the structure, a specialized indoor search drone was flown through the house to gather real time intelligence on the layout and potential hazards. This technological precursor provided the team with critical information, allowing them to focus their search on specific high risk areas. The precision of the entry was designed to bring the situation to a close without a violent escalation or injury to the officers involved.