REFUGIO – A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper received a letter of commendation recently after using a drone to locate a missing juvenile several miles from home.
Refugio County Sheriff Matthew Tuttle presented the commendation to Trooper Brittney Scott on Aug. 13 in recognition of her assistance during the July 2025 search.
Scott, a DPS drone operator, responded to assist the Refugio County Sheriff’s Office and used her training and equipment during the search. She eventually located the juvenile at the top of a tree several miles from the juvenile’s home.
The juvenile was found safe, according to Tuttle.
“I cannot thank Trooper Scott enough for her willingness to respond and assist when we needed it,” Tuttle said. “Her actions that day are a great example of the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the difference that dedication, training and teamwork can make.”
Tuttle said the successful search demonstrated the value of cooperation between local and state law enforcement agencies.
“We are grateful for Trooper Scott and for the continued partnership and support of the Texas Department of Public Safety,” he said.