Today in Baltimore, Alexis Perez Suarez pled guilty to illegally operating a drone over M&T Bank Stadium during an NFL Wild Card game on January 11, 2025. The plea was accepted by Magistrate Judge Charles D. Austin, who sentenced Suarez to one year of supervised probation, 100 hours of community service, and a $500 fine.
U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes announced the guilty plea along with Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski from the FBI's Baltimore Field Office, Greg Thompson from the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG), and Colonel Roland L. Butler Jr., Superintendent of the Maryland State Police.
The Federal Aviation Administration had placed a temporary flight restriction (TFR) around M&T Bank Stadium for the game, designating it as a No Drone Zone. Despite this restriction, Suarez flew his drone into the airspace above the stadium.
"Public safety is a top priority," Hayes stated. "Suarez knew that M&T Bank Stadium was under a temporary flight restriction, yet he flew his drone into the airspace anyway."
Koldjeski emphasized the risks involved: "It is not just irresponsible and reckless but illegal to fly a drone over a major sporting event such as a Ravens playoff game."
Thompson reiterated that federal laws regulating drones are meant to protect people: "Flying drones illegally—especially overcrowded sporting events—is reckless and dangerous."
During the game, NFL Security temporarily suspended play due to the threat posed by the unidentified drone. Law enforcement tracked and identified Suarez after he left the scene.
Suarez admitted in his plea that his drone was unregistered and he lacked necessary training and licensing to operate it legally. He captured approximately seven photos while flying over thousands of spectators at the stadium.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding unauthorized drone use within FAA No Drone Zones.
Hayes commended multiple agencies for their work in this investigation and thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert I. Goldaris for prosecuting the case.
For more information about resources available through the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
