A man was charged Monday with illegally flying a drone over M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore during last month’s AFC Championship Game, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.
Matthew Hebert, 44, of Pennsylvania, was charged with three felonies for allegedly operating an unregistered drone, leading to a suspension of the game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs. They won 17-10 and secured their spot in 2019. Super Bowl.
Authorities allege Hebert violated national airspace and operated the drone with a certificate.
“Illegal operation of drones poses significant safety risks and will likely result in federal charges,” U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron said in a statement. “Temporary flight restrictions will always be in place during major sporting events.”
If convicted, Hebert could face up to three years in prison for operating an unregistered drone and not having a certificate. He also faces up to a year in prison for violating US national airspace.
His first commitment is expected later this month, according to a press release.
Mr. Hébert reportedly stated that he was unaware of this restriction.
While operating the drone, he took six photos and may have also recorded video, according to the affidavit. He did not realize he had disrupted the match until he was confronted by a police officer who approached him during the match.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, drones cannot be flown within three miles of the 30,000-capacity stadium during the event. This restriction applies one hour before the start of the match and one hour after the end of the match.
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