A Baltimore man, Alexis Perez Suarez, is facing federal felony charges for allegedly flying a drone over M&T Bank Stadium during an NFL Wild Card Game on January 11, 2025. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland, along with officials from the FBI, DOT OIG, and the Maryland State Police.
"We are very serious about temporary flight restrictions," stated U.S. Attorney Barron. "You will be charged and held accountable for any incursion into restricted airspace, including around sports and entertainment venues such as the Super Bowl."
Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office emphasized the importance of understanding drone laws: "If you are going to fly a drone, you are responsible for learning all the laws and requirements to responsibly operate it. Failing to do so will not excuse you from the consequences of breaking the law."
The incident occurred despite a temporary flight restriction (TFR) imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration at M&T Bank Stadium during the game. Such restrictions prevent drones from operating within a three nautical mile radius of certain venues during major events.
Greg Thompson, Special Agent in Charge of DOT OIG’s Mid-Atlantic Region, highlighted public safety concerns: “Federal laws and regulations related to owning and operating drones are in place to protect the public and our nation's airspace.”
The unauthorized drone flight led NFL Security to temporarily suspend the game while authorities tracked its movement. Despite Suarez leaving the scene, law enforcement was able to locate him later.
Suarez admitted purchasing a DJI UAS for recreational use but lacked registration or a Remote Pilot certificate. He allegedly flew his drone approximately 400 feet over the stadium, capturing photos while thousands were present below.
There is strict enforcement against unauthorized drone operations within FAA-designated No Drone Zones. Violators may face arrest, prosecution, fines, or imprisonment.
If convicted, Suarez could receive up to three years in federal prison for operating an unregistered UAS without certification and up to one year for violating national defense airspace regulations.
It is important to note that criminal complaints are not findings of guilt; individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
U.S. Attorney Barron commended various agencies involved in this investigation and thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert I. Goldaris for prosecuting this case.
For further details on resources available through Maryland's U.S. Attorney’s Office visit their official website.
