The United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has entered a consent judgment against Michael DiCiurcio, a Philadelphia resident, for violating Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. This development was announced by Jacqueline C. Romero, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
According to the complaint, DiCiurcio operated small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), commonly known as drones, unlawfully in the Philadelphia area from December 2019 onwards. The allegations include operating flights at night near significant landmarks such as the William Penn Statue and Liberty One Building, with one flight reportedly coming close to striking a church steeple. Additionally, it is alleged that DiCiurcio flew drones inside controlled airspace near Philadelphia airport and over people and vehicles. In one instance, he allegedly lost control of a drone, causing it to fly uncontrolled over the city.
Despite written warnings and counseling from the FAA regarding safe drone operations under Federal Aviation Regulations, DiCiurcio is accused of continuing illegal and reckless drone activities.
On January 23, 2025, before Magistrate Judge Jose Arteaga, DiCiurcio agreed to a consent judgment admitting to all allegations in the Verified Complaint. He acknowledged violations of FAA regulations and accepted administrative findings that could influence future enforcement actions against him.
Under the terms of this judgment, DiCiurcio will no longer operate any sUAS within the United States or seek certification or licensing for such operations. He also agreed to take down his YouTube channel "Philly Drone Life" and abandon drones surrendered to the FAA on May 23, 2024.
Chief Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg signed off on this consent judgment on January 29, 2025.
Deputy FAA Administrator Katie Thomson stated: “We work hard to educate people about safely flying their drones, and we don’t hesitate to take strong enforcement action when pilots deliberately flout the rules.”
U.S. Attorney Romero emphasized: “Failing to adhere to the safety requirements for flying small unmanned aircraft systems endangers people and property... Our Office is committed to ensuring total compliance with the FAA regulations and we will vigorously enforce violations wherever we find them.”
The case titled United States of America v. Michael DiCiurcio is identified as Case No. 24-0612 (E.D. Pa.) and was investigated by both the FAA’s Flight Standards Division and U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Viveca D. Parker is handling this case.
It should be noted that all civil claims are allegations only with no determination of civil liability made yet.