Two men were apprehended on Saturday after allegedly conducting a hazardous drone operation dangerously close to Logan International Airport in Boston. The incident has heightened concerns about drone safety in restricted airspaces.
The suspects, identified as Robert Duffy (42) and Jeremy Folcik (32), were tracked to Long Island in the Boston Harbor Islands. Authorities discovered a drone in a backpack carried by Mr. Duffy. A third individual fled the scene and has yet to be located.
FBI Assists in the Investigation
Due to the drone’s proximity to an airport, FBI counter-terrorism agents joined the investigation. Police stated that the operation violated restricted airspace regulations, potentially endangering air traffic. The suspects face charges of trespassing, with additional charges expected.
Drone Sightings Surge in the Northeast
The arrests coincide with a surge in unauthorized drone sightings across the northeastern United States, particularly in New York and New Jersey. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas acknowledged the growing issue, linking it to recent federal law changes allowing night drone flights.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called for stronger state powers to address drone threats, while Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer requested drone detection technology for New Jersey airports.
Call for Enhanced Drone Regulation
With the rise in drone-related incidents, federal and state officials are urging for enhanced counter-drone measures under federal supervision. Mayorkas emphasized that no evidence links the drone sightings to foreign interference.
Conclusion
As drone activity increases, incidents like the hazardous operation near Boston’s Logan Airport underline the need for stricter enforcement and updated regulations. Lawmakers and agencies are working closely to ensure airspace safety and prevent future incidents.
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