PSPD Utilizes Drone and K-9 to Achieve Peaceful Arrest in Burglary Incident

PALM SPRINGS, CA — On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, just before 5PM, officers from the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) were dispatched to a reported burglary in progress on the 2300 block of Girasol Ave. Upon arrival, they secured a perimeter and observed the front door had been forcibly opened. With no response to their calls, officers used a drone to conduct an initial search of the interior, which indicated the presence of several closed doors but no suspect.
Following further unheeded announcements, a K-9 unit was deployed. The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Eugene Kirkwood, surrendered immediately upon the K-9’s entry, emerging with his hands raised. The K-9 was then recalled, and Kirkwood was arrested without further incident.
Kirkwood, who was on active parole for first-degree burglary, was subsequently transported to the John Benoit Detention Center in Indio, CA. He faces charges of residential burglary, parole violation, and possession of burglary tools.
PSPD Chief Andy Mills praised the officers for their coordination and use of de-escalation strategies, highlighting the incident as a demonstration of the department’s commitment to public safety and effective use of technology and specialized units.