The operator of a rogue drone that harassed Salem firefighters from the air was put on probation for two years Tuesday.
âIt was an absolutely stupid mistake,â James Russell Weeks III said during a sentencing hearing in Roanokeâs federal court. âI totally regret the decision I made.â
Weeks, 40, had earlier pleaded guilty to operating an unregistered aircraft the day he piloted his drone over a Salem fire station, swooping down repeatedly on firefighters and police officers who were gathered outside.
First responders were more annoyed than intimidated by the bizarre incident, according to court documents.
Nonetheless, U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Dillon said there was a risk of harm. If nothing else, she said, firefighters were distracted at a time when they were on call to respond to emergencies.
Prosecutors did not seek a jail term.
