Seven Charged for Using Drones at Blue Jays Playoff Games

TORONTO, Canada — Toronto police have charged seven individuals for illegally operating drones over Rogers Centre during the Toronto Blue Jays‘ playoff games against the Seattle Mariners.

The incidents occurred on October 12 and 13, when officers from the Emergency Management and Public Order Unit detected and intercepted seven unauthorized drone flights using specialized drone detection technology. The charges involve violations of Canadian Aviation Regulations and breaches of federally designated no-fly zones around the stadium.

Some of the operators believed their micro-drones, which weigh under 249 grams, were exempt from these restrictions. However, police emphasized that all drones are prohibited from flying over advertised events, including sporting matches, without a Special Flight Operations Certificate.

Earlier in October, police had already fined two drone operators for similar violations during games on October 4 and 5, raising overall enforcement actions to nine individuals in just two weeks of postseason play.

With Game 6 of the American League Championship Series scheduled for today, authorities have reiterated that Rogers Centre remains a no-drone zone. “This restriction applies without exception, including to micro-drones,” police stated in a news release.

The heightened security measures come as large crowds gather at Rogers Centre, which can hold over 49,000 fans. As the series stands with Seattle leading 3-2, today’s game could decide if the Blue Jays can force a crucial Game 7 on Monday.