Curious: What's going on with all these drone sightings in New Jersey?

Expert: It’s a big mystery. Over the past few weeks, residents and lawmakers have reported seeing drones over New Jersey and New York, but no one knows where they’re coming from or why they’re there.

Curious: Has the government investigated?

Expert: Yes. The FBI and Homeland Security are using infrared cameras and drone detection technology to figure this out. They’ve also reviewed photos and videos, but most show manned aircraft, not drones.

Curious: So, are there even drones?

Expert: That’s the thing - some sightings might be misidentifications, but local mayors, like Matthew Murello, insist they’ve seen drones firsthand. He described multiple-rotor aircraft hovering low, some possibly as large as 6 feet in diameter.

Curious: Are these drones dangerous?

Expert: So far, the White House and Pentagon say there’s no evidence of a security or safety threat. But Mayor Murello and others are skeptical, especially since drones near airports or military bases could pose serious risks to aircraft.

Curious: What does Trump have to say?

Expert: President-elect Trump said, “Something strange is going on,” and accused the government of withholding information. He implied it might be tied to national security but didn’t confirm if he’s been briefed.

Curious: Are officials doing anything about this?

Expert: Local mayors wrote to Governor Murphy asking for answers. After a meeting with state police, they were told there’s little information available. The drones reportedly don’t emit radio signals or use transponders, which is illegal for night flights, making them even harder to track.

Curious: Couldn’t they just bring one down to investigate?

Expert: Legally, no. Shooting down a drone is illegal and could result in a $250,000 fine or up to 20 years in prison. Mayor Murello argued it’s ridiculous not to capture at least one for analysis, saying, “We don’t need to bring them all down, just one to figure out what’s going on.”

Curious: So, what are the possible explanations?

Expert: Murello sees two options. One, the government knows what’s going on but isn’t telling us, possibly for national security reasons. Or two, and scarier, even the military has no idea what these drones are or who’s behind them.

Curious: That’s unsettling. What’s next?

Expert: Investigations are ongoing, but answers are still elusive. Senators from New York and New Jersey have pushed for federal agencies to provide more transparency. For now, though, the mystery remains unsolved.