Drivers at three busy intersections in Kingston, Ont., had no way of knowing they were being watched earlier this month, but high above them police hovered, zooming in to catch those using their phones while behind the wheel.

By the end of the day on May 7, officers had handed out 20 tickets for distracted driving — each alleged violation captured on video by a drone flying overhead.

It was the first time Kingston Police had used the tactic, and as residents heard what was going on, debate began …