GOP Lawmakers and AG Join Forces to Combat Suspected Cartel Drones

Arizona lawmakers are considering a new bill aimed at giving police officers immunity when disabling drones suspected of being involved in drug smuggling operations.

Attorney General Kris Mayes emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating the aim is to “blow them out of the sky.”

Rep. David Marshall introduced H 2733, asserting that the bill equips law enforcement with essential tools to combat drug cartels and bolster border security. According to the Snowflake Republican, criminals utilize drones for surveillance and to transport fentanyl and other narcotics from Mexico into Arizona, circumventing traditional smuggling routes.

Mayes, a proponent of the initiative, noted the existing technology employed by Border Patrol to neutralize drones electronically but stressed that it falls short of what is required.

“The federal government should have the necessary personnel and drone jammers,” Mayes remarked. “However, that’s not happening at present.”

The proposal aims to clarify the legal boundaries for law enforcement as they navigate concerns about potential liabilities from damaging drones or injuring bystanders.

Marshall reassured critics, stating he doubts innocent people will be in harm’s way. “What are you doing in the desert at midnight?” he questioned, suggesting nefarious activities are more likely.

He reiterated the need for robust law enforcement measures to intercept dangerous substances such as fentanyl crossing the border, underscoring that drones spotted in these areas are likely linked to criminal activity.

The legislation extends beyond the immediate border area, initially allowing police to disable drones as far as 30 miles away, though there is a proposal to limit this distance to 15 miles.

Mayes expressed confidence in law enforcement’s judgment, stating she trusts their ability to act appropriately, regardless of the urban settings that may fall within the designated zones for drone actions.

Support for the measure includes endorsements from local police officials like Chris Hines, Chief of the Sierra Vista police department, who urged that the bill would empower proactive measures against illicit drone activity.

Mayes articulated several factors that may justify police action, including the pattern of nighttime drone flights and packages clearly attached to drones, facilitating their illicit operations.

Despite recognizing that advanced drones are also utilized by media outlets for coverage, Mayes stated, “If sacrificing a news drone helps tackle drug cartels, then so be it.”

She concluded with a willingness to face any legal consequences that may arise from disrupting legitimate drone operations in the pursuit of public safety.