'Safety Is The Priority': Hillsborough Mayor Discusses Drones With NJ Governor

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Mayor Robert Britting, Jr. is working with state government officials to ensure safety and transparency for residents following reports of drone sightings.

Britting also spoke directly with Governor Phil Murphy and his staff, who he says assured him that state officials are actively investigating the matter to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

"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."

Britting is also working with Assemblyman Roy Freiman.

"Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our residents," said Assemblyman Roy Freiman. "We take these reports seriously because these drones are obviously not a child’s holiday toy. We will continue to coordinate with local, state, and federal authorities to investigate, and identify the source of the drone activity."

Britting and Freiman will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.

"In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions if they observe any unusual drone activity," said Britting.

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 partnership seeks "to reassure the public that we will continue to monitor and investigate the drone activity. There continues to be no known threat to public safety," said authorities.

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued two Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) prohibiting drone flights over Picatinny Arsenal Military Base through Dec. 26 and Trump National Golf Club Bedminster through Dec. 6, at the request of federal security partners. Read More: Flight Restrictions Issued Over Trump Golf Course After Drone Reports

The FBI began their own investigation on Nov. 26, approximately 10 days after the first sightings were reported, but there have been no updates since then.

Drone operators who conduct unsafe operations that endanger other aircraft or people on the ground could face fines up to $75,000. In addition, the FAA can suspend or revoke drone operators’ pilot certificates.

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