Drone Operator Faces Prison for Hitting Firefighting Plane
Peter Akemann, a 56-year-old Culver City resident, faces serious consequences for his actions during the devastating Palisades Fire. His reckless operation of a drone resulted in a collision with a crucial firefighting aircraft, a Canadian “super scooper,” causing significant damage and temporarily grounding the vital resource during a critical moment in the fire suppression efforts. This incident underscores the severe risks associated with irresponsible drone operation, especially in sensitive environments like active wildfires.
The resulting charges and plea agreement highlight the gravity of Akemann’s actions. He has agreed to plead guilty to unsafe operation of an unmanned aircraft, a charge that carries potential penalties of up to a year in federal prison and a substantial financial burden.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood