Tue Jun 24 13:50:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Carbon County Sheriff Highlights Drone Program Success, Urges Public Caution on Social Media**

**Price, UT – June 23, 2025** – During a recent Carbon County Commission Meeting, Sheriff Jeff Wood lauded the success of the Sheriff’s Office’s (CCSO) drone program, which launched just over a year ago, emphasizing its critical role in recent law enforcement operations.

Sheriff Wood explained that the CCSO partnered with USU Eastern’s drone program to train officers, providing them with the necessary skills and legal knowledge to operate the drones effectively and obtain their 107 certification for government use.

Since March, the drones have been deployed in 10 incidents, including locating missing hikers, livestock, and, most recently, fugitive William Webber. The drones proved particularly vital in the recent standoff with Rogelio Bustillos, where they enabled officers to locate and surveil him from a safe distance. The aerial surveillance allowed spotters to overhear Bustillos’ phone calls, revealing he was heavily armed and would resist arrest. Wood emphasized the drones’ instrumental role in ensuring a safe resolution for everyone involved.

Sheriff Wood clarified that the drones are not used frivolously but are essential tools for government operations.

He also addressed the issue of misinformation circulating on social media and through media outlets, particularly during the Bustillos incident. “We had some misinformation through the media of a situation that didn’t occur, and that made it a little more challenging as well,” he said. Wood cautioned that inaccurate information can endanger both officers and the public, as it can draw crowds to the area and divert law enforcement resources. He also warned against posting sensitive information, such as photos of armored vehicles, which can compromise the element of surprise in tactical situations.

Sheriff Wood assured the public that the CCSO will always provide timely and accurate information during high-risk incidents, prioritizing public safety.

Commissioner Larry Jensen echoed Sheriff Wood’s sentiments, urging the public to trust law enforcement and reassuring residents that they would be notified immediately of any threats requiring shelter-in-place measures. Wood added that the CCSO has technology to notify individuals in specific areas during high-risk incidents, providing clear instructions.

Following the discussion, commissioners voted to appoint Commissioner Jensen as the new Carbon County Commission Chair, effective July 1, 2025.

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