The Pittsburgh Steelers Wild Card matchup with the Baltimore Ravens was halted by the sighting of a drone over the stadium back in January.
Now, a 43-year-old man has entered a guilty plea and was sentenced to one year of probation, 100 hours of community service and a $500 fine.
Per the Baltimore Banner, Alexis Perez Suarez is from Baltimore and was responsible for the drone and the delay of the playoff game.
“Public safety is a top priority, so we’re committed to protecting our airways above mass gatherings. Suarez knew that M&T Bank Stadium was under a temporary flight restriction, yet he flew his drone into the airspace anyway, which is unacceptable,” Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, said. “There is a zero-tolerance policy for operating Unmanned Aircraft Systems in No Drone Zones. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with our partners, will hold those accountable who ignore the rules and regulations surrounding restricted airspace."
The local FBI office was also involved in the investigation.
“It is not just irresponsible and reckless, but illegal to fly a drone over a major sporting event such as a Ravens playoff game. Capturing a photo is not worth the risk of hurting any spectators, players, or employees. As shown by this investigation, the FBI and our partners will hold those caught violating the law fully accountable," Amanda M. Koldjeski, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office said.
The danger of a drone over a crowded stadium was emphasized as well.
“Federal laws regulating the use of drones exist for a reason: to protect people and keep our skies safe,” Special Agent in Charge Greg Thompson of the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General said. “Flying drones illegally— especially overcrowded sporting events — is reckless and dangerous. Today’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to working with our partners to hold violators accountable and prevent potential disasters.”