Penalties For Flying Drones In Bergen County

Drones have become a central topic in New Jersey within the last few days and weeks. There is considerable confusion surrounding the recent increase in drone sightings in New Jersey, and Governor Murphy has publicly asked the federal government for help in dealing with this issue. Amidst this confusion, New Jersey residents should become aware of the potential consequences of flying drones. A Bergen County defense attorney may be able to provide further guidance if you currently face criminal charges for unlawful drone operations.

Recent Arrests for Unlawful Drone Operations 

You may be arrested for certain drone activities in the United States. In early December, a Chinese national was arrested after flying a drone near a military installation – and federal authorities say that he was using the device to photograph military assets. This man was taken into custody at an international airport, just moments before he was scheduled to board a flight back to China.

Among other things, he was charged with violating national defense airspace, a federal crime that can lead to a maximum prison sentence of four years. Although this incident occurred outside of New Jersey, the same federal rules apply to all military installations throughout the United States. There have been numerous reports of “drone swarms” near US bases within the past few weeks and months. 

Penalties for Trying to Shoot Down a Drone in New Jersey 

The penalties for shooting down a drone in New Jersey can be even more serious. Whether you think that the aircraft is a foreign military asset or not, you are not allowed to simply open fire at these objects. Various media sources have highlighted the potential penalties for this conduct.

If you fire at a drone in New Jersey, you could face up to 20 years in prison for violating federal FAA laws. You may also face additional penalties for discharging a weapon according to local state and municipal laws.

Potential Consequences of Flying Your Drone to Capture Footage of Other Drones 

Many New Jersey residents are using their own drones in order to get closer to these strange UFOs. Their goal is to capture clearer and more definitive footage of the objects, but this could potentially result in criminal charges. In some areas, drones are strictly prohibited. The most obvious example is an airbase or military installation, as these areas have strict federal laws regarding airspace incursions.

Many of the drone sightings have occurred near or over these military installations. It may be that the military is carrying out tests, and these tests may seem like unexplained aerial phenomena. Even if you’re simply trying to find the truth, you should avoid flying your drone anywhere near controlled military airspace. You may face serious consequences if caught.

Can a Defense Attorney in New Jersey Help? 

A defense attorney in New Jersey may be able to help if you’re facing criminal charges related to drone operations in the state. If nothing else, the recent phenomenon in the Garden State has highlighted the increased usage of drones in the modern era. Although it might be tempting to fly your own drones during this period of uncertainty, you could face criminal penalties for unlawful or unlicensed activities. Contact Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law to learn more.

Sources:

abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/new-jersey-governor-federal-resources-probe-drone-sightings-116773979

12newsnow.com/article/news/verify/national-verify/shoot-drone-illegal-blumenthal-fact-check/536-23c5af3c-11b6-4af8-93c6-96169a5ff92e#:~:text=The%20FAA%20referred%20people%20to,laws%20cannot%20override%20federal%20laws.