EPS lays first drone-related charge

The Edmonton Police Service has charged a man in relation to the unsafe and dangerous operation of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), also commonly known as a “drone.”

On Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016, a constable trained as a UAV operator for the EPS observed an UAV operating in a dangerous manner in downtown Edmonton in the area of 105 Avenue and 104 Street. The UAV was reportedly being operated over buildings, roadways, the MacEwan LRT Station and around Rogers Place.

Guidelines issued by Transport Canada deem this type of operation to be hazardous to persons on the ground. The UAV was operating too close to the Royal Alexandra Heliport, which STARS uses for transporting patients for medical emergencies.

An investigation by members of the EPS in consultation with Transport Canada and the Crown Prosecutors, led to EPS laying charges on Monday, Dec. 5, 2016.

Bennett Alexander Hojka, 23, was charged with operate model aircraft without a permit on parkland under a municipal bylaw. He was also charged with flying a model aircraft in a manner that is or is likely to be hazardous to aviation safety under the Canadian Aviation Regulations.

“With the holiday season here, many electronic enthusiasts may purchase or receive a UAV as a gift, “says Const. Binoy Prabhu with Downtown Division. “Please remember there are regulations for its use and that users should be familiar with and follow the Transport Canada guidelines.”

from Media Releases http://ift.tt/2gbd6GT