Drone investigation in New Jersey: FBI and state police ask for public’s help after aviation activity in Morris County

MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. – The FBI and New Jersey State Police are now appealing for public information after reports last week of drones flying in Morris County.

The drones reportedly flew in several areas along the Raritan River.

“For about a week now, law enforcement has been notified that people are seeing drones primarily at night,” said Washington Township Mayor Matt Murello.

The nighttime drone sightings involved oversized drones that raised questions due to their proximity to President-elect Trump’s Picatinny Arsenal and Bedminster Golf Course.

A video captured by WABC-TV by Bridgewater resident Stephanie Marie shows other drones flying without noise and describes lights about six feet across the sky.

“We have also received complaints in this area. While we do see recreational drones being flown sometimes, that does not appear to be the case,” Murello added.

Several law enforcement agencies in New Jersey released a joint statement:

“County and local law enforcement are aware of recurring reports of drone activity in Morris and Somerset counties and recognize the public’s concern about these repeated sightings.”

Local police said there was no known threat to public safety.

The FAA is keeping an eye on these drone sightings and is temporarily closing airspace. Unauthorized use of drones that endangers aircraft or people on the ground carries a $75,000 fine.

Anyone with information about the drones is asked to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit it online at Tips.fbi.gov.