Hagåtña, Guam – In a landmark case of espionage and disregard for national security, Billy Cao Cruz, 54, has been sentenced to two months home confinement for flying a drone over a sensitive military installation in Guam. The verdict was handed down on September 11, 2025, by the District Court of Guam.
Cruz, who operates the YouTube channel ‘Planet Guam,’ faced charges after he uploaded and later removed a video showing sensitive footage of a military base on the island. The video, which garnered nearly 12,000 views, raised immediate concerns about national security and prompted an investigation by federal authorities.
On February 1, 2025, Cruz was warned by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) regarding photographing military installations. Despite this warning, Cruz continued to operate a drone over the base, reportedly stating, ‘You get away with a lot of things.’ He later removed the video and expressed understanding of the potential threats.
United States Attorney Shawn N. Anderson emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, ‘Nearly all of the airspace over Guam is subject to flight restrictions to ensure safe operations and protect national security.’ Anderson also encouraged anyone with knowledge of similar activities to contact the FBI.
FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter highlighted the importance of safeguarding national defense installations. ‘This case demonstrates the consequences drone operators face when they ignore the law,’ he said. The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Aviation Administration, and Naval Criminal Investigative Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Leon Guerrero prosecuted the case in the District of Guam. Cruz has been ordered to serve two years of supervised release and pay a mandatory $25 special assessment fee.
Related Federal Cases
Key Facts
- State: Guam
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Cybercrime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News