Monmouth Commissioners, Sheriff demand Governor declare State of Emergency amid drone sightings

Monmouth leaders demand swift action to ease resident concerns.

Freehold - Monmouth County’s commissioner board have joined Sheriff Shaun Golden’s call for Governor Phil Murphy to take immediate action in response to the escalating concerns regarding unidentified drones over New Jersey. Golden is urging the Governor to declare a State of Emergency and issue an Executive Order banning recreational drone use during nighttime hours.

"Residents are increasingly alarmed by the surge in drone activity after dark, raising concerns about public safety and security," said Sheriff Shaun Golden. "We cannot wait any longer. The Governor must act now, and the Air National Guard needs to step in to protect our communities. In addition, we are asking Congress to immediately pass federal legislation for state police and sheriff's offices nationwide, which would enable them to address this issue head on."

The proliferation of recreational drones has created a host of challenges for law enforcement and emergency response teams. Nighttime drone activity makes it difficult to identify operators and assess potential risks, including illegal surveillance, interference with critical infrastructure, and aviation hazards. Therefore, de-drone equipment must be made available at the state level.

According to Golden and Commissioner Director Tom Arnone, a State of Emergency will help address these growing concerns and restore peace of mind in communities.

“We are completely supportive of the Sheriff’s call for Governor Murphy to declare a state of emergency, as well as his call for Congress to immediately pass federal legislation enabling state police and sheriff's offices to address this issue nationwide,” said Director Arnone in a press statement.

Sheriff Golden has also written to Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-4th) asking for more federal support in procuring de-drone equipment and and mitigation measures for law enforcement and first responders.

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