How is that different than cops using Fleer or other thermal imaging for decades? Because they used a drone which is cheaper? Glad the kid was found and is alright, but…..
For starters, drones can be deployed from a car trunk (SUV), can be replaced for less than most bits on a helicopter, consume far less fuel, have considerably less delay in deployment, and risk no pilot/observer lives in foul weather, not to mention GPS capability which can eliminate redundant searching and make the whole operation more efficient. They can even be set up to drop a small pack with water, food or survival blankets while waiting for ground personnel to get there, and can even get into places a helicopter cannot.
Potentially, and correctly used, they can bring a lot to the table.
