Va. State Police say report suspicious drone activity to VSP Va. Fusion Center

Law enforcement is encouraging Virginia residents to contact the Virginia Fusion Center at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), if they see drones acting suspiciously.

As of Dec. 18, 2024, the Virginia Fusion Center (VFC), located within the Homeland Security Division of the Virginia State Police, has received 150+ tips regarding drone activity in the Commonwealth.  “All of the tips are being investigated and shared with key stakeholders,” a VSP news release said.

This comes as there have been reports of drones flying in other areas of the United States, including in New Jersey.

“We encourage anyone who witnesses a drone flying over critical infrastructure, such as energy installations, or military sites, to contact the Virginia Fusion Center,” said Virginia State Police Special Agent D. Robinson. “This will enable us to work with our partners to determine exactly what is occurring, and how to move forward.”

A Virginia State Police news release stated that “Drones are required to remain in sight of either the operator or a visual observer and have a maximum allowable altitude of 400 feet unless waived by federal regulators. ”  Also, drone operators “are required to have a remote pilot certificate for recreational use or a license from the FAA for commercial use,” the VSP said.

Learn more about the rules and regulations at Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) | Federal Aviation Administration.

It is against the law to shoot at a drone.  Airspace is governed by the Federal Government.  State Law does prohibit flying drones within 50 feet of a residence, unless the person is authorized by the federal government to operate and is doing so lawfully and consistent with federal regulations.

The Virginia Fusion Center Shield Program has released additional information on drones available at All Sectors Bulletin - UAV Assessment.  All information bulletins distributed by the VFC Shield are public and are intended to be shared, the VSP news release said.

The public is encouraged to sign up for this free outreach program at http://www.fusion.vsp.virginia.gov/shield.