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The federal government is ramping up efforts to address numerous drone sightings in New Jersey and the northeast. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas announced on Sunday (December 15) that additional personnel and technology will be deployed to assist New Jersey State Police. According to Mayorkas, there is no evidence of foreign or criminal involvement in the sightings.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that a new drone detection system is being sent to her state to aid law enforcement. She emphasized the need for Congress to grant states more authority to manage drone activity. Hochul stated, "This has gone too far," after drone activity temporarily closed Stewart International Airport's runways.
Reports of drones have been widespread, with sightings in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Some sightings have been near military facilities, raising concerns. However, the FBI has found that many reports are cases of mistaken identity, often confusing drones with manned aircraft. Out of 5,000 sightings, fewer than 100 warranted further investigation.
Senator Chuck Schumer and other officials are calling for legislative action to empower local police with more tools to manage drone activity. Despite public concern, federal investigations have not identified any national security threats or foreign connections to the drones.