Clinton Township police assign detective to investigative division, launch drone program

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The Clinton Township Police Department has assigned a veteran officer to its investigative division and launched a new drone program aimed at enhancing public safety and emergency response.

Detective Michael Malanga was recently assigned to the department’s Investigative Division, police said. As part of his new role, Malanga completed drone training and earned his Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification.

Police said the department’s new drone program will utilize a DJI Mavic 2 Pro to assist with operations such as searching for missing persons, monitoring large public events, documenting crash scenes and providing real-time situational awareness during emergencies.

Officials said the addition of drone technology is expected to improve officer safety and overall response capabilities.

Malanga has also completed specialized training in Drone Assessment and Response Tactics, as well as advanced flight instruction, to help lead the program.

He will work alongside Detective William Musacchio as he transitions into his new assignment, police said.

Authorities described the addition of Malanga and the drone program as a valuable enhancement to the department’s investigative operations.