Statement from Sheriff Chitwood on return from Ukraine

Date Added: October 16, 2025 1:20 pm

I’m headed back to U.S. soil after a trip I’ll never forget.

For the past several days I’ve been in Ukraine, meeting with police and special forces for an eye-opening lesson on the capabilities and threats of drone strikes. I was able to make this trip alongside the philanthropist Howard G. Buffett and the Police Executive Research Forum.

Ukraine has become the epicenter of drone warfare as unmanned aerial systems are the dominant weapon deployed by both sides. A huge portion of all casualties of this war are caused by drone attacks.

This terrible war may be 5,000 miles away, but the tactics and technology used in Ukraine bear watching here at home. Drones are relatively cheap, readily available and could pose a serious threat if weaponized and used to target our community or one of our major events.

It's not a matter of if, but when we experience a terrorist attack via drone here in the USA. The future is here, and we need to be prepared for it.

I met with police in Lviv for a discussion with command staff on terrorism, the war, and how drones can impact policing and public safety in any community.

I saw the immense effects of cruise missile strikes that can cause major damage spanning 20 acres from the site of the strike. It’s one thing to see it on the news - entirely different to see it in person.

It was humbling to meet with some of the heroes who have lost limbs and sustained many other traumatic injuries in the war. I spent an afternoon at the Superhumans Center, where war survivors receive reconstructive surgery and rehabilitation, and will never forget their bravery and resilience.

Much more to reflect on from this trip in the days ahead. Thanks to Howard Buffett and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation for funding this effort, Chuck Wexler and the Police Executive Research Forum for making this possible for me and my fellow law enforcement leaders. My sincere appreciation to all our hosts and the people of Ukraine for welcoming us to their country as they fight for their very lives and their future.