In New Jersey, there has been growing concern regarding unidentified drones spotted flying at night across central and northern parts of the state since mid-November. Residents have taken to social media to share videos of these aerial sightings, prompting local and state officials to demand clarity on the situation.
A group of lawmakers from New York and New Jersey, including Senators Chuck Schumer, Kirsten Gillibrand, Cory Booker, and Andy Kim, have sent a letter to the leaders of the FBI, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They expressed urgent concern about the unmanned aerial system (UAS) activity impacting communities and requested a briefing on how federal and local agencies are investigating the source of these drone sightings.
According to the DHS, the identity of the drone operators remains unknown, and it has been confirmed that New Jersey agencies are not involved in operating these reported drones. The federal investigation is ongoing, and specific details about the drones, including their model and manufacturer, have yet to be disclosed.
Drones in the U.S. that weigh more than 0.55 pounds must be registered and are typically trackable via GPS. Approximately 800,000 drones are registered with the FAA. However, the larger size of the drones reported in New Jersey suggests that they should be easily trackable. The lack of clarity regarding their origin has left many residents puzzled.
The DHS has indicated there are currently no specific or credible threats related to these drone sightings. Officials, including White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby, have stated that many sightings may be attributed to legitimate aircraft, further fueling residents’ frustrations. Mine Hill Mayor Sam Morris has openly criticized these statements, inviting officials to witness the drone activity firsthand.
Additionally, legal measures complicate the situation. Shooting down or capturing a drone is generally illegal due to safety risks and could incur substantial fines or imprisonment. Drone operators also face strict regulations, including the requirement to keep their drones in line of sight and to obtain permission to fly in restricted airspaces.
If individuals encounter suspicious drone activity, the DHS advises reporting it to local law enforcement or the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security.
While the situation remains unresolved, it highlights the need for stronger regulations and communication regarding drone operations to ensure community safety and trust in local authorities.
In summary, as the investigation continues, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed and engaged. This situation presents an opportunity for lawmakers to potentially reevaluate current drone regulations to enhance oversight and ensure community protection, contributing to a safer environment for all.