NJ’s Freehold Big stories are never wasted by politicians. The current drone craze in New Jersey, according to one Monmouth County politician, is a legitimate excuse to push anti-drone legislation against legitimate private drone owners.
In reaction to a surge of drone sightings throughout the area, the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners has endorsed Sheriff Shaun Golden’s request that Governor Phil Murphy proclaim a State of Emergency and enact a ban on drones for recreational use at night.
Golden, a retired officer from the Toms River Police Department, stated unequivocally that he wants his agency and local police agencies to have more authority over who is allowed to fly drones and where.
On Thursday, Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone reaffirmed the Board’s support, highlighting the situation’s increasing urgency. “We fully support the Sheriff’s request that Governor Murphy declare a state of emergency,” Arnone stated, adding that the issue is being addressed through continued cooperation with local law enforcement and prosecutors.
Sheriff Golden mentioned growing worries about national security and public safety, highlighting the dangers that drones bring at night, such as unlawful spying, disruption of infrastructure, and aviation hazards. The sheriff also called on federal lawmakers to take immediate action, stating that Congress needs to enact laws that will allow law enforcement to more effectively handle this national problem.
Emergency response activities throughout Monmouth County have been hampered by the drone sightings; Golden noted that it has been challenging to identify drone operators and ascertain the purpose of the devices in poor visibility situations. Golden wants stronger rules for private citizen drone operators and a complete prohibition on drone use.
Authorities are urging quick action to reduce dangers and give police the resources they need to control illegal drone operations.
Sheriff Michael Mastronardy of Ocean County had discussed how police agencies may use anti-drone tactics to stop drones from flying over disaster zones, crime scenes, and other police investigations.
County Commissioners and the sheriff’s office contend that in order to preserve public safety, save vital infrastructure, and avert future catastrophes, federal and state intervention is necessary.
Officials in Monmouth County are intensifying their efforts to prevent uncontrolled drone use at night and are alerting the public to the dangers to aviation and vital infrastructure. The public’s ability to fly drones at night would be restricted by those rules, which might violate the First Amendment.
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