New Jersey State Police Recover Stolen Agricultural Drones in Ongoing Investigation
Authorities in New Jersey have recovered a fleet of stolen agricultural drones that had raised concerns due to their potential misuse. The New Jersey State Police Cargo Theft Unit confirmed that 15 drones and associated spray systems were successfully recovered on April 27, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn attention from both state and federal agencies.
The drones were originally reported stolen on March 24 from CAC International, a logistics and shipping company based in Harrison, New Jersey. These devices are classified as agricultural drones, commonly used as registered crop dusters capable of dispersing fertilizers and pesticides across large areas. Their recovery comes after weeks of investigation into the theft and movement of the equipment.
According to law enforcement, the stolen drones were located at Prudent Corporation in Dover, New Jersey. Officials have not released details about how the drones were transported between locations or whether any suspects have been identified or taken into custody. The investigation remains active, with multiple agencies working to determine the full scope of the incident.
Federal authorities, including Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, are assisting in the case. While officials have not indicated that the drones were used in any criminal activity beyond the theft itself, their capabilities have made the situation a high priority for investigators.
The New Jersey State Police released the following statement regarding the recovery:
“On April 27th, the New Jersey State Police Cargo Theft Unit recovered 15 stolen agricultural drones and spray systems. These drones are labeled as agricultural drones due to their specified function as registered crop dusters. The theft occurred on March 24th at CAC International, a logistics and shipping company located in Harrison, NJ. The drones were recovered at Prudent Corporation located in Dover, NJ. This is an active, ongoing investigation that Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Patrol are assisting with. No additional information is available,” according to NJSP DSG Caitlin Brennan.
Authorities say additional details will be released as the investigation progresses.
