LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. (CBS12) — A Florida man was arrested Saturday after deputies say he shot at a sheriff’s office drone that was being used as a first responder during a call.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office says its Drone As First Responder program was deployed in the area of Todd Avenue S in Lehigh Acres to assist with an ongoing incident.
While monitoring the scene, the drone operator observed several males carrying what appeared to be a firearm. Moments later, one of the individuals identified as Elvin Antonio Callejas-Serrato allegedly pointed the weapon at the drone and fired two rounds.
Deputies who were already in the area quickly moved in and detained the group.
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During the investigation, authorities say they recovered a BB rifle loaded with steel projectiles.
Callejas-Serrato was arrested and charged with shooting or throwing deadly missiles into an aircraft.
Sheriff Carmine Marceno praised the drone program, saying it is designed to improve response times and enhance safety for both deputies and the community.
“Our Drone First Responder allows us to quickly respond and keep both our deputies and community safe,” Marceno said. “If you threaten or harm law enforcement resources, you will be held accountable.”