Increasing Drone Incursions Over U.S. Prisons Cause Alarm
In an alarming trend, federal prisons in the U.S. are experiencing a significant surge in drone-related incidents, with 479 reported in 2024—a stark rise from just 23 incidents in 2018. While advancements in drone technology have facilitated smuggling operations, state prisons find themselves limited in their response options due to federal regulations.
Why It Matters
This escalating drone activity poses considerable risks, including the potential for dangerous contraband reaching prison populations. As inmates gain access to illegal cell phones, the problem is exacerbated, suggesting a further need for effective enforcement measures and technological solutions.
Key Developments
- Surge in Incidents: The Federal Bureau of Prisons reported 479 drone incursions in 2024, compared to 23 in 2018.
- State Limitations: Unlike federal authorities, state prisons lack the ability to shoot down or jam drones.
- Advanced Smuggling Techniques: Drones are now capable of carrying payloads up to 25 pounds and can fly at speeds exceeding 75 miles per hour.
- Drone Detection Innovations: South Carolina’s Department of Corrections has enhanced its drone detection systems, responding quickly to incursion alerts.
- Confiscation Efforts: Drone teams have managed to intercept several drones and collect data aiding in identifying drone pilots.
Full Report
Escalating Drone Activities
Joel Anderson, director of South Carolina’s Department of Corrections, highlighted the challenge posed by nightly drone incursions, with multiple incidents at various institutions. The evolution of smuggling missions has led to drone pilots using heavier payloads and faster drones, complicating enforcement efforts.
In response, South Carolina has developed a comprehensive drone detection system that alerts prison staff the moment a drone is detected overhead. This system enables a specialized drone response team to mobilize quickly. However, once a drone is airborne and has delivered its payload, tracking it back to the controller can be challenging.
Smuggling Tactics
Smugglers, often former inmates who maintain inside contacts, employ various tactics to disguise their contraband. Anderson noted that drones frequently camouflage their deliveries, making them harder to spot against prison grounds. In some cases, drones have been caught in nets and fences or have crashed, allowing officials to retrieve and analyze their flight records. This data can lead law enforcement to the drone operators.
Risks of Drone Deliveries
The dangers associated with drone delivery are significant. Anderson emphasized the risk of drones transporting hazardous substances, such as fentanyl. “At one time, we picked up enough fentanyl to kill the entire prison system,” he stated, pointing to the risks involved in trying to bring down a drone.
Future Solutions
One of the critical factors contributing to drone smuggling is the illegal cell phones inmates possess, enabling them to communicate with accomplices outside prison walls. The Federal Communications Commission is reviewing potential measures that would allow states to utilize radio-jamming technology, providing a possible avenue for mitigating this issue.
Context & Previous Events
The growth in drone activity over prisons reflects a troubling trend that has developed since 2018, when federal reporting began. Until now, states have been restricted in their ability to react to drone incursions due to FAA regulations designating drones as registered aircraft, limiting state responses to detection and confiscation.
As authorities continue to explore solutions, the ongoing challenge of drone smuggling remains a pressing concern for prison security nationwide.
