Originally Posted by
astrohog
I think you better read that document again. Nowhere does it grant enforcement of FAA regs to local law enforcement. In fact, it clearly states that the FAA is solely responsible. What it does say, is that in cases of drone complaints where local law enforcement is involved, many times the leo will find that there has been an infraction of local or state law that can be enforced under that leo’s jurisdiction. Those infractions should not be confused as that leo enforcing FAA regs. Completely different. That doc then goes on to provide contacts for local leo to forward potential FAA violations in order that FAA enforcement can then follow up on.
Astro
Right, in the document it says they show up, collect evidence, and forward it to the FAA for prosecution, that amounts to them doing the field work for the FAA. It also says for the LEO to apply all local laws as well, but the whole collect evidence for the FAA as a law enforcement personnel directive means they are empowered. Remember, the local LEOs don't determine guilt in local cases either, they are working for Prosecutors who present the LEO's evidence to the judge (or jury)., or in this case they present it to the FAA to prosecute. Either way they are working to present evidence of wrongdoing for prosecution by an appropriate authority, the very definition of enforcing the law at the street level....