U.S. lawmakers ask FBI to help investigate mysterious drones flying over New Jersey

U.S. lawmakers from New Jersey join many residents in their frustration over dozens of reports of drones flying near sensitive sites such as military research facilities in recent weeks, and they are now calling on federal agencies to immediately help investigate and resolve the ongoing Upgrade issues.

New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith, one of the key figures leading the investigation into the sources and possible risks of drone activity, joined law enforcement leaders in his Long Beach Island district on Monday.

“I have been talking with Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardi, Monmouth County Sheriff Sean Golden, and national security officials in the area about the central New Jersey congressional district,” Smith said. and widespread reports of unidentified drone activity across the state. “New Jersey residents are understandably alarmed by this significant and recurring phenomenon, and the tepid response to date from our state and federal agencies. Totally unacceptable. As we saw with the Chinese spy balloon last year, our most ferocious adversaries will stop at nothing.

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The FBI has been investigating reports of several mysterious nighttime drone flights that began last month in central New Jersey, and the agency has since appealed to the public for help. Since the call was made, residents have reported seeing drones in other parts of the state.

According to Gov. Phil Murphy, there were 49 drone reports on Sunday alone, mostly in Hunterdon County. The Democratic governor said his data includes possible sightings and instances where the same drone may have been reported more than once.

“This is something we take very seriously. I don’t blame people for being frustrated,” Murphy said.

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New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy (Spencer Pratt/Getty Images/File)

Although federal and state officials continue to say there is no known public safety risk or threat, who is flying the drones and why is a mystery.

But Smith said that while the source of the drone activity has not yet been determined, communication lines between authorities, including law enforcement officials and federal partners, must “improve dramatically” in order to quickly respond to UAS challenges.

“The people of New Jersey owe it to our state and federal agencies to take swift and bold action to immediately investigate, assess and address this situation and alleviate the growing concerns in our community,” Smith said, adding that he has already conducted The investigation reports sightings to multiple federal agencies. “I will continue to work around the clock to ensure law enforcement has all the tools and authority needed to identify these drone systems until New Jersey residents get the comprehensive answers they deserve.”

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New Jersey drone targeting map (“Fox and Friends”/Screenshot)

Likewise, Rep. Tom Kean (R-N.J.) expressed frustration with the lack of urgency regarding drones over the Garden State.

“I join thousands of New Jersey residents who are deeply frustrated by the growing concerns about drones operating in our skies,” Kean wrote. “The safety and privacy of our residents must be a top priority, and right now, Both are at risk.

“In addition, the authorities should immediately conduct in-depth public briefings,” he added. “The people of New Jersey deserve answers, and I will continue to demand accountability to ensure their rights and safety are fully protected.”

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Drones are legal for recreational and commercial use in New Jersey, subject to local and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and flight restrictions.

Drone operators also need to be certified by the FAA.

Most of the drones spotted over New Jersey are reportedly larger than those used by amateurs.

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Questions and concerns have been raised about the flights because they occurred near Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility, and over President-elect Trump’s Bedminster golf course.

The FBI is asking residents to share any video or photos they have of the flight, as well as any other relevant information.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.