Youngstown cop uses drone to track down suspect charged with stealing from elderly

Jerome Varga

A Youngstown Police officer used a drone to help track down an Austintown man accused of multiple theft charges, including theft from the elderly, and intimidation of a public official.

Officer Greg Mullenex says in his report that he was working with the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Monday morning as they were on their way to arrest 46-year-old Jerome Varga when they spotted him in a car near his home on Tall Oaks Lane.

The report says the car drove away and police followed it to a home on nearby Black Oak Lane, where it pulled into a driveway where Varga hopped out and ran through backyards.

Mullenex says he sent his department-issued drone into the air and it wasn’t long until Varga crept out from his hiding place surrendered to police and booked into the county jail.

The Skydio X2 drone used by the officer utilizes artificial intelligence technology and can be deployed in just 40 seconds, according to the manufacturer.  It is equipped with cameras, sensors, and a NightSense feature that allows for autonomous flight in the dark.

Two dozen Youngstown Police Officers began drone training last summer to help them locate suspects in challenging conditions, like at night or in wooded areas.