The use of drones, once reserved for the military, is
now widespread.
In fact, drones are receiving a high level of interest
from investigation services. Even more, they are now becoming
indispensable security tools, as shown by the recent acquisition by
the City of Toulouse of several drones to protect its
inhabitants.
But can these drones be used to secure evidence in a
criminal case?
The Criminal Chamber of the Cour de Cassation
(French Supreme Court) ruled on this question on November 15,
20221
The facts of the case at hand were as follows: an individual had
been indicted for various drug offenses. During the judicial
inquiry, he filed an application for the rejection of some pieces
of evidence, arguing that the incriminating images had been
captured by a drone and were, therefore, inadmissible.
