The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has opened an investigation into recent reports of drone sightings near President-elect Donald Trump’s Bedminster golf club in New Jersey. The growing number of unusual drone activities across Hunterdon County and neighboring areas has also prompted local officials to seek answers, raising concerns about public safety, privacy, and national security.
The Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Wednesday that it is working closely with federal agencies to investigate drone sightings reported across various parts of the county and New Jersey. Reports describe drones lingering over residential areas for extended periods, and in some cases, flying in clusters of up to eight.
Hunterdon County Commissioner John Lanza, who serves as the liaison to the Sheriff’s Office and Department of Public Safety, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation. “The reports we’re receiving are troubling, especially given the proximity to critical locations like President-elect Trump’s Bedminster property,” Lanza said.
The Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, located just east of Hunterdon County, has been identified as a specific area of concern due to the frequency of reported drone sightings. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has since implemented temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) over several parts of New Jersey, including the vicinity of the golf club.
In a statement, the FAA explained the new measures:
“At the request of federal security partners, the FAA published two temporary flight restrictions prohibiting drone flights over Picatinny Arsenal Military Base and Trump National Golf Club Bedminster.”
These TFRs aim to prevent unauthorized drone operations that could pose risks to high-profile locations and federal security.
Commissioner Lanza stressed that drones, classified as aircraft under FAA regulations, are subject to strict operational guidelines. Unauthorized drone use near sensitive areas can have severe legal and security implications.
The sheriff’s office issued a warning to residents about the risks associated with unauthorized drones:
“Drones hovering near homes, businesses, or public spaces should be reported immediately to authorities. Unauthorized use of drones is not only a violation of FAA regulations but a significant threat to safety, privacy, and potentially national security.”
The ongoing investigation is being handled by multiple agencies, including the FBI, FAA, and local law enforcement. Officials are assessing whether the drones represent casual recreational use, surveillance, or more nefarious activities.
While no specific suspects or motives have been identified, the investigation underscores the heightened vigilance required when unusual drone activity occurs near sensitive locations.
Authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious drone sightings immediately. If a drone is found grounded due to mechanical issues, residents are advised not to interact with it. Instead, they should contact local law enforcement or federal agencies for proper handling.
Hunterdon County’s Sheriff’s Office reinforced this message:
“Drones are increasingly accessible, but their misuse poses real risks. Public cooperation is crucial in identifying and mitigating these threats.”
Drones have become a common feature in modern life, used for everything from recreational purposes to commercial delivery services. However, their potential for misuse has sparked concerns across various sectors, including aviation, national security, and personal privacy.
In recent years, drones have been implicated in breaches of high-security zones, unauthorized surveillance, and even smuggling contraband into restricted areas like prisons. The growing sophistication of drone technology has made it easier for individuals or groups to deploy them for illegal purposes.
For President-elect Trump’s Bedminster golf club, the presence of drones raises questions about potential security vulnerabilities, particularly as the location may host sensitive meetings or high-profile guests.
The investigation into the drone sightings is ongoing, with federal agencies prioritizing the matter due to its potential implications for national security. The FAA has indicated that it may expand flight restrictions if necessary to ensure the safety of the area and its residents.
Meanwhile, local officials are calling for greater transparency from federal authorities. Commissioner Lanza has requested a public briefing on the situation to keep the community informed and to reassure residents about the steps being taken to address the issue.
As the investigation unfolds, the mysterious drone sightings near President-elect Trump’s Bedminster golf club have highlighted the growing challenges posed by drone technology. With federal, state, and local authorities now on high alert, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining robust regulations and public vigilance in the face of evolving technological threats.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert, report suspicious activity, and trust that authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of the community.
