Police: Drone peeping still voyeurism and drones require registration

A few drone sightings and complaints in Jasper prompted police to remind the public of new and existing regulations on the unmanned aircraft.

First, a citizen saw a drone flying near a home’s windows and reported it to police.

Based on this report, the department wants to remind the public that it is a crime to use a drone to peep into someone’s home without the consent of the homeowner. The operator of the drone could be charged with voyeurism which is a Class B misdemeanor but in certain circumstances, can be enhanced to a Level 6 felony.

In another incident, an officer saw a drone flying around town Tuesday evening and thought it was important to release the information about the new drone regulations from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The FAA requires every drone that weighs over .55 lbs to be registered before flying. As a reference, two sticks of butter nearly weigh .55 lbs.

The drone must have a compliant label for identification and carry the certificate of registration. More information on drone operational requirements can be found at http://www.faa.gov/uas/registration/.

Anyone with questions or comments about drones can contact the Jasper Police Department at 812-482-2255.