Maryland Man Faces Federal Charges for Illegally Operating Drone During NFL Playoff Game

A Baltimore man is facing federal felony charges after allegedly flying a drone over M&T Bank Stadium during an NFL Wild Card game on January 11, 2025. Alexis Perez Suarez, 43, was charged for operating an unregistered drone and flying in restricted airspace, which led to a temporary suspension of the game. Authorities tracked the drone’s movements and located Suarez after he left the scene.

Federal aviation restrictions were in place at the time of the game, prohibiting unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) from flying within a three-nautical-mile radius of the stadium. This temporary flight restriction (TFR) is a standard measure implemented for major sporting events to ensure public safety. Law enforcement officials, including Maryland State Police troopers and FBI agents, responded to the drone incursion and traced it back to its landing location in Baltimore.

Investigators determined that Suarez had purchased a DJI drone for recreational and work purposes but had not registered it, nor did he possess the required Remote Pilot certificate. Officials allege he flew the drone approximately 400 feet over the stadium, capturing images of the game with thousands of spectators below. The Federal Aviation Administration enforces a zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized drone activity in designated no-fly zones, and authorities encourage the public to report suspicious drone activity.

Suarez faces a maximum sentence of three years in federal prison for knowingly operating an unregistered UAS and serving as an airman without certification. He also faces up to one year in prison for violating national defense airspace regulations. Sentencing will ultimately be determined by a federal judge, taking into account federal guidelines and other statutory factors. His initial court appearance is expected later this month.

Federal officials emphasized the importance of adhering to aviation laws and restrictions, particularly in areas designated as no-fly zones during high-profile events. The case was investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General, and the Maryland State Police, with support from the FAA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors.

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