As drone sightings cause panic around the state, NJ Republicans call for federal involvement.
Trenton, New Jersey. In a statement released Wednesday, the state Senate Republican Caucus called for quick federal assistance to resolve the sightings, which they say have left citizens anxious and without answers, amid mounting public anxiety over unexplained drone activity in New Jersey.
The New Jersey State Police and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness have launched investigations into the drones, which have been seen throughout the state over the previous three weeks. The Biden Administration’s response was deemed slow-rolled and insufficient by Republican senators, who also questioned the absence of federal support and transparency regarding the incidents.
In a statement, the caucus claimed that government lawmakers’ claims that there is no threat to public safety and that they do not know who is flying the drones, where they are coming from, or where they are headed are reckless. They urged Governor Phil Murphy to push for further federal involvement and permission to destroy drones that are thought to pose a threat.
State police and homeland security personnel briefed the Republican delegation Wednesday morning, with Assembly members DiAnne Gove, Brian Rumpf, and Senator Christopher Connors leading the delegation. Although they were frustrated by the lack of conclusive information, they acknowledged the professionalism of law enforcement. Officials stressed that shooting down drones is still a federal crime and pointed out that some sightings might be mistaken for manned aircraft, which would complicate the inquiry.
Lawmakers emphasized that in order to ascertain the source and intent of the drones, national intelligence services must strengthen their interaction with state and municipal authorities. The Republican delegation stated that this is particularly important and pertinent given the growing number of drone sightings, the places in concern, and the general lack of knowledge regarding the drones’ intended use.
The FBI has urged those who are worried about the drone sightings to submit any information by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!
