Internal documents reveal Harrisburg police used drones purchased by fire bureau to surveil festivalgoers

September 8, 2026

by Laura Harding

Internal documents obtained in a right-to-know request reveal that City of Harrisburg police operations plan for public events include mass surveillance of festivalgoers. Attendees reported hearing announcements over a public address system at Artsfest, July 4th Food Truck Festival and Kipona that stated, “all bags are subject to search within the festival area” and “large group gatherings not part of scheduled events are prohibited and may be dispersed by law enforcement.” Documents confirmed the messages were broadcast at 30 minute intervals during the July 4th event and on an hourly basis during Artsfest.

Internal emails include discussion of feedback received from attendees regarding lack of signage and prior notice that they may be subject to search and Fourth Amendment concerns. Response from Captain Atah Akakpo-Martin stated “if individuals refuse the search, they will be asked to leave the area.”

A press conference held prior to the Kipona event drew criticism from the public for statements made by Commissioner Tom Carter and Mayor Wanda Williams, banning “Pooh Shiesty” masks and hoodies, and a threatening statement from the Mayor that “we will arrest your children.”

A June 25 email from Akakpo-Martin reveals the use of drones, purchased by the the fire bureau for the police:

“We will also be rolling out our new DRONES as an extra level of security. This is to inform everyone. We will have them up from 1600-2000 hours, depending on whether we need to monitor crowds waiting for the fireworks. I'd have added that sooner to the conversation, but I didn't think we'd get them in time.

I appreciate the fire bureau for buying them for us. You guys are great!”

Multiple Flock cameras have also been observed in the area and how they are being utilized by local police has not been verified. State legislators recently released a memo announcing their intent to introduce legislation regulating the use of Flock cameras. Several state senators have also announcedtheir intent to enact legislation regulating or outright banning their use. 

Flock cameras located on City Island and in Riverfront Park between Forster Street and Chestnut Street. Image obtained from https://deflock.org/