Rep. Kean, Senator Bramnick, Somerset Co. Mayors Call For Action To Address Drones

DISTRICT 7 — Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Senator Jon Bramnick (R-21), and several Somerset County mayors are calling for immediate action to address the growing concern over unexplained drone activity in New Jersey.

"I join thousands of New Jersey residents in deep frustration regarding the growing concerns over drones operating in our skies. The safety and privacy of our residents must be a top priority, and right now, both are being put at risk. I am calling for the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Aviation Administration, and other appropriate federal agencies to deploy greater resources to investigate and address this escalating issue," said Kean in a statement released Monday.

"Additionally, an in-depth public briefing from authorities should take place immediately. The people of New Jersey deserve answers, and I will continue to demand accountability to ensure their rights and security are fully protected," continued Kean.

Senator Jon Bramnick (R-21) released a statement on Tuesday regarding the mysterious drones flying over New Jersey.

"The State of New Jersey should issue a limited state of emergency banning all drones until the public receives an explanation regarding these multiple sightings," said Bramnick.

Since mid-November, residents in a growing number of communities have been spotting the unidentified flying machines at night, sometimes traveling in clusters. Read More: Drone Sightings Mount In NJ As Officials Demand Answers

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphys said there were 49 sightings reported in the state on Sunday, but that some were duplicate sightings or were not actually drones.

"This is something we’re taking deadly seriously. I don’t blame people for being frustrated," he told reporters after an unrelated bill signing on Monday.

Mayors across Somerset County have also shared their concerns about the drone activity.

The six municipalities of the Somerset Hills — Bedminster, Bernards Township, Bernardsville, Bridgewater, Far Hills and Peapack & Gladstone — have been in contact with Gov. Murphy’s office as well as Congressman Kean’s office.

On Monday night, the six Mayors of the Somerset Hills sent a "joint request to the Governor’s office requesting immediate action on this issue of great concern to us and our residents."

Hillsborough Mayor Robert Britting, Jr. also spoke directly with Gov. Murphy and his staff, who assured him that state officials are actively investigating the matter to ensure the safety and security of all residents. Read More: 'Safety Is The Priority': Hillsborough Mayor Discusses Drones With NJ Governor

"Safety is the priority. We want to assure our community based on the press release from Somerset and Morris County, that there is no cause for alarm at this moment," said Britting. "However, it is important for everyone to report any suspicious drone activity to the FBI so that authorities can track and address this issue appropriately."

As a result of the sightings, Somerset and Morris County Prosecutor’s, Sheriff’s and Emergency Management Offices, and local municipal police departments, are working with the FBI-Newark, New Jersey State Police and New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness partners.

The FBI Newark and the NJ State Police are asking the public to report any information related to the recent sightings of possible drones. Anyone with relevant information is asked to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit it online at tips.fbi.gov.

Citizens can also upload videos through the latter website.

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