Laguna Beach resident Alexander Milinovic, 62, has admitted to federal crimes after repeatedly flying a drone in a dangerously reckless manner near occupied aircraft. The feds say Milinovic put lives at risk, forcing pilots to take evasive action to avoid mid-air collisions.
Between June 2022 and March 2023, Milinovic piloted his drone perilously close to three different aircraft: an open-cockpit gyrocopter, a “Shark Week” blimp operated by Discovery Channel, and most alarmingly, a United States Coast Guard helicopter actively engaged in flight operations. Each incident forced the pilots to perform emergency maneuvers, scrambling to avoid what could have been catastrophic consequences. The Coast Guard incident is what truly triggered the full weight of the investigation.
The reckless flights didn’t happen in isolation. The FBI and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, working through the Joint Terrorism Task Force, began receiving videos on TikTok – posted by Milinovic himself – showcasing his drone flying dangerously close to the aircraft. These videos provided crucial evidence in building the case. The FAA and the Coast Guard also lent their expertise to the probe, analyzing flight paths and potential risks.
Milinovic pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor counts of unsafe operation of an unmanned aircraft. While misdemeanors, each count carries a potential sentence of up to one year in federal prison. Federal prosecutors, led by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer L. Waier of the Santa Ana Branch Office, are pushing for a sentence that reflects the seriousness of Milinovic’s disregard for aviation safety. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 28, 2023.
This case underscores the growing threat posed by irresponsible drone operation. While drones offer exciting new possibilities, they also present significant risks if not operated within the bounds of the law. The FAA has strict regulations in place to prevent interference with manned aircraft, and violations are taken seriously, especially when they involve potential for collision.
The feds aren’t just going after Milinovic; this case serves as a warning. Anyone operating a drone needs to understand and respect the rules of the airspace. Ignoring those rules isn’t a hobby, it’s a crime—and one that could have deadly consequences. Expect increased scrutiny of drone operators and stricter enforcement of aviation regulations in the wake of this incident. The skies aren’t a playground for reckless behavior.”
RELATED: Laguna Beach Man Pleads Guilty to Unsafe Operation of Drone Near Aircraft
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