Rochester Police Department Presents Award to Empire Drone Owners

Posted on October 19, 2020

Empire Drone recognized for their assistance during last month’s protests

 

FULTON, New York - On Tuesday, October 20, Rochester Police Chief Mark Simmons presented an award to Sean Falconer and John McGraw, the owners of Empire Drone, a commercial drone distribution company based in Fulton, NY.  During last month’s protests, Falconer and McGraw handled emergency repairs on the Rochester PD’s surveillance drone and also provided a replacement drone during the repair process. 

 

“We are very grateful to receive this award. When public safety is a concern, we are always willing and excited to lend a hand,” says John McGraw. 

 

The DJI M300, which was lent to the Rochester PD by Empire Drone, was used to monitor nightly protests. The drone provided the police with a live, aerial feed of the city which helped ensure the safety of both the citizens and officers.

 

“The ability to monitor a crowd or a traffic situation from the air gives real time intelligence to our command post so they can make decisions on routing traffic... so that the protestors aren’t in danger,” said Chief Mark Simmons. 

 

About Empire Drone:  Empire Drone is a leading distributor, integrator, inspection service provider, and trainer for unmanned aerial systems in North America. Empire Drone was founded on the unrelenting goal of providing our clients with the best the drone industry has to offer. For more information, please visit www.empiredroneco.com or call us at 315-743-4285.

Other Member News

Harborfest Fundraiser TR
May 15, 2026

Harborfest Fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse

Fundraiser for Oswego Harborfest at Texas Roadhouse.

logo
May 11, 2026

Girl Scouts Press Shop Is Now Open! Custom Products With a Purpose!

Let us create an online store for you! Easily take orders so you know that your customers are getting exactly what they want. Then, we’ll get those custom orders on the press.

McFarland Johnson Opens Office in Syracuse
May 11, 2026

McFarland Johnson Opens Syracuse Office to Strenthen Central New York Infrastructure Services

McFarland Johnson officially celebrated the opening of our new Syracuse, NY office with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting event, marking an exciting new chapter for our team and our continued investment in the region.

Sapphire Recruitment Promotes Kelly Annicharico and Danielle Lee to Senior Recruiters
May 7, 2026

Sapphire Recruitment Promotes Kelly Annicharico and Danielle Lee to Senior Recruiters

Both Kelly and Danielle have been valued members of the Sapphire Recruitment team for 10 years, bringing a decade of recruiting expertise and company knowledge to their new roles.

Production Poster for A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody
May 5, 2026

A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody

This six-character comedy is a spoof of and a love letter to the screwball comedies of the 1930s and to stage mysteries in general. It is a one-set, two-act piece featuring witty dialogue and slapstick comedy. It ends in a nice bang and…

Mozaic M
May 5, 2026

Arc of Oswego and Oswego Industries Join Mozaic Unified Organization to Expand Services and Strengthen Community Impact

This merger strengthens impact, increases efficiency, and reinforces a shared commitment to inclusion, independence, and community growth across the Finger Lakes and Central New York.

Run for Refuge Save the Date
May 4, 2026

Join David's Refuge at their 2nd Annual Run for Refuge 5k & 10k

Join us for the Run for Refuge 5K Run & Walk! This community event is intended to bring people together to support caregivers who give so much of themselves every single day.

May 1, 2026

Nave Law Firm Recognizes American Red Cross of Central and Northern New York as May's Nave's Neighbor

Nave Law Firm highlights United Way of Central New York's role in strengthening the community through strategic partnerships, resource alignment, and programs supporting health, financial stability, and family well-being.

member news graphic
April 30, 2026

Member Essentials-CEO Insights May 2026

Below is a snapshot of the latest news and top headlines from our members.