SJPD promises to be more open about drone program

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- The San Jose Police Department is promising to be more open about its drone program going forward.

Civil liberties groups have criticized the department since reports surfaced last week that San Jose police spent $7,000 in federal grant money on a small surveillance drone without involving the public.

Police say the drone could be used to help the bomb squad spot explosives or in active shooter situations.

Civil liberties groups worry that it could be used to spy on people.

The department says in hindsight it could have handled the project better, and they promise to involve the community in drawing up guidelines for using the device.