The Indiana Department of Homeland Security and local and federal officials continue to monitor an increase in drone activity near sites where Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza outbreaks have been identified.
Local law enforcement has received reports of several drones spotted in Adams, Allen, Jackson, and Jay counties in Indiana and nearby Ohio locations. Many of these drones have been reported flying over farms, as identified by the Board of Animal Health, and some reports have surfaced of people shooting at the drones to bring them down.
It is a crime to shoot down a drone. It is a felony to “damage, destroy, disable or wreck any aircraft,” punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.
All reports of drones or personal operators in these counties should be reported to local law enforcement. Additionally, many reports from the public to local law enforcement have been unfounded.
Agricultural areas and farms affected by avian influenza are quarantined, and any unlawful entry (by drones or citizens) could spread the virus. Some reports have surfaced indicating drones have landed on barns in these areas, and there is legitimate concern that the drones could transmit disease from one location to the next. Nearby residents should never take action themselves but rather contact local officials to report the activity.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are monitoring airspace with the state (IDHS, Board of Animal Health) and local law enforcement agencies. Flight restrictions in certain areas are being considered.
The Indiana Board of Animal Health continues to address the local cases of avian bird flu in Indiana and is taking appropriate action to protect the public.