BALTIMORE – A Pennsylvania man is facing felony federal charges in connection with a drone flying over M&T Bank Stadium during the Baltimore Ravens’ AFC Championship Game on January 28.
Matthew Herbert, 44, from Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, is being charged for illegally operating a drone during the playoff game, which caused a delay.
“Illegally operating drones poses a significant security risk that will lead to federal charges,” said United States Attorney Erek Barron, “Temporary flight restrictions are always in place during large sporting events.”
“Operating a drone requires users to act responsibly and educate themselves on when and how to use them safely,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock of the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office. “The FBI would like to remind the public of the potential dangers of operating a drone in violation of federal laws and regulations. The reckless operation of a UAS in the vicinity of a large crowd can be dangerous to the public, as well as interfere with other law enforcement and security operations.”