Federal Prison Sentence for Drone Operator Who Struck Firefighting Aircraft During Malibu Blazes

A shocking incident during the January 2023 Malibu fires has led to an unprecedented federal prison sentence for a Culver City man whose rogue drone struck a helicopter engaged in critical firefighting operations. Suk Chan Lee, 42, has been sentenced to two weeks behind bars, followed by one year of supervised release, for interfering with an aircraft – a stark warning to drone enthusiasts everywhere about the severe consequences of irresponsible flight.

The incident unfolded on January 18, 2023, amidst a desperate battle against wildfires raging across the Malibu area.

Firefighting crews were battling the blaze when Lee's drone, a DJI Mavic 2 Pro, struck a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department helicopter. This wasn't merely a minor inconvenience; the impact forced the vital firefighting aircraft to make an emergency landing, disrupting crucial efforts to contain the rapidly spreading flames.

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Attorney Martin Estrada highlighted the gravity of Lee's actions, stating, “Piloting a drone near firefighting aircraft is dangerous, illegal, and puts the lives of pilots and first responders at risk. This defendant not only put others in harm’s way but also interfered with our community’s ability to fight a raging fire.” His words underscore the dual threat posed by such recklessness: direct danger to human life and sabotage of critical emergency services.

The drone strike occurred at approximately 4 p.m., as the helicopter was actively dropping water on the Topanga Fire.

The pilot reported hearing a “thump” and immediately suspected a collision. Upon landing at the Van Nuys Airport, maintenance crews confirmed the impact, finding a significant dent and green paint transfer on the helicopter's nose, consistent with the drone's color. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also reported the incident, noting that the helicopter’s transponder data ceased transmitting shortly after the collision, indicating a potential disruption to its critical flight systems.

Investigators, including representatives from the FAA and the Los Angeles Interagency Drone Response Team, utilized radar data and witness accounts to trace the drone's flight path, ultimately leading them to Lee.

Facing the full weight of federal law, Lee pleaded guilty in November 2023 to one count of interfering with the operation of an aircraft.

In addition to his federal prison sentence, Suk Chan Lee has been ordered to pay a $1,500 fine and complete 100 hours of community service, further emphasizing the seriousness of the offense.

Donald Alway, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, reinforced the message: “Drone operators who interfere with emergency operations are committing a serious crime that will not be tolerated. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who endanger the public.”

This case marks a significant precedent as it is believed to be the first federal prison sentence in the United States for a drone strike on a manned aircraft.

It serves as a stern reminder that while drones offer incredible capabilities, their operation comes with immense responsibility, especially when emergency services are actively engaged in protecting lives and property.