A couple was recently caught using a drone to deliver illegal drugs to buyers. The Riverside County Police arrested the couple for selling meth and other illegal drugs using a drone.  The investigation looked into the activities of 39-year-old Benjamin Baldassarre, and 31-year-old Ashley Carroll after the police got information that a drone was being used to peddle illegal narcotics.

Officers carried out an investigation which led them to the home of the suspects at the 8700 block of Chesapeake Lane. They got a search warrant and arrested the couple.  The police discovered some used hypodermic syringes scattered in the bedroom, as well as some powder, believed to be Fentanyl, a powerful opiate. The officers also found methamphetamine and candy they suspected of containing LSD. The drone used for the delivery of the illegal drugs was also found in the residence of the suspects.

During the course of the investigation, the detectives found out that a nine years old girl was also living in the residence. This prompted them to involve Child Protective Services in the investigation.  The couple was arrested and detained at the Robert Presley detention center for the possession and sale of illegal drugs. They were also charged with the conspiracy to commit a crime and child endangerment.

As drones become more prevalent and widely adopted by companies and individuals, new uses will be emerge.  Unfortunately though, it is sad to see that while many companies and individuals find new and innovative ways of using drones to advance mankind positively, some people are using it to further their criminal activities.

When we talk about drones being used to impact the lives of people, we are normally referring to the good guys with positive uses. But what about the bad guys who simply want to circumvent the law? How can new laws and regulations reduce the criminal activities being committed with drones?

Drones were recently used to deliver drugs and other banned items to a prison.  They were used to deliver blades, hacksaw, mobile phones, Sim cards, knives, USB drives and DVD players. Because they can easily fly over walls and barriers, it makes it harder for security personnel to detect them. Crime is one of the reasons why the use of drones has aroused the interest of law enforcement. As time passes, we can expect to see more regulations that will help clamp down on crimes committed by drones.

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