Henry Alejandro Jimenez, Unlawfully Operating Drone, Florida 2021

Tampa Man Charged With Flying Drone Over Super Bowl Security Zone

Tampa, Florida – In a shocking display of disregard for public safety, Henry Alejandro Jimenez, 33, of Orlando, has been charged with unlawfully operating a drone in restricted airspace related to Super Bowl LV. If convicted, Jimenez could face up to one year in federal prison.

According to the complaint filed by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Scruggs, on February 3, 2021, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a temporary flight restriction (TFR) covering an area extending outward from downtown Tampa. This TFR, along with others, was issued as part of a comprehensive security plan designed to protect and secure the events leading up to, and including, Super Bowl LV.

The FBI agents then located Jiminez, the operator of the drone, nearby in downtown Tampa. When questioned, Jimenez stated that he is an FAA-licensed remote pilot UAS operator and that he was aware that a TFR was in place for the Super Bowl. A review of his drone’s flight path showed that it had traveled over Julian B. Lane Waterfront Park, which was hosting public events related to the Super Bowl.

Jimenez also appears to have operated his drone without maintaining an uninterrupted visual line of sight for the entire flight, as required by FAA regulations. Furthermore, Jimenez flew his drone over people and moving vehicles.

“This is a perfect example of the serious consequences drone operators face when they choose to ignore the temporary flight restrictions,” said FBI Tampa Special Agent in Charge Michael McPherson. “The TFRs are in place for your safety during Super Bowl week. Be aware of the NO DRONE ZONES and report any suspicious activity to the FBI or local law enforcement.”

A complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and it will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Scruggs.

Defendant Details: Henry Alejandro Jimenez, 33, of Orlando, Florida, has been charged with violating national defense airspace in Tampa, Florida, on February 3, 2021. If convicted, Jimenez could face up to one year in federal prison.

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