The FBI’s San Juan office has been authorized to issue citations for certain lesser federal offenses tied to illegal drone use, restricted airspace, and photographing military installations in Puerto Rico. The authorization was granted on October 8 by the federal Prosecutor’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico and lets agents act through citations for specific violations of federal law where no weapons are involved and no one is injured.
Covered infractions include the unsafe operation of unmanned aircraft systems, entering runway exclusion zones, using drones on restricted buildings or grounds, violating temporary flight restrictions or national defense airspace on a first offense, and photographing defense installations or using aircraft to obtain such images in circumstances prohibited by federal law. The list also covers obscene conduct aboard aircraft, punishable by a maximum fine of $500.
Special Agent in Charge Carlos Goris said unauthorized drone operations near airports and military installations pose real risks to public safety and ongoing federal and military operations, warning that violators will be held accountable. The FBI already holds citation authority for other lesser offenses, including thefts or receiving stolen property under $1,000 in special jurisdictions, simple assault or resisting federal officials, and misuse of government names or insignia.
Citations will be processed through the Central Violations Bureau, and the public can report suspicious activity at tips.fbi.gov or 787-987-6500.