Idaho drone pilot could be charged for flying near wildfire

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (AP) – A drone flying illegally created a problem for crews fighting a wildfire south of Twin Falls, Idaho.
 
The Times-News reports (http://bit.ly/2tFYr12 ) the lightning-caused fire burned grass and brush near Nat-Soo-Pah.
 
Bureau of Land Management Twin Falls District spokeswoman Kelsey Brizendine says they had a drone intrusion on the fire, and it was a huge concern.
 
The drone was spotted around 12:30 a.m. Sunday, and firefighters found the drone pilot.
 
The BLM will contact the pilot again this week. She says that person could receive a citation for interfering with firefighting efforts.
 
The BLM can also issue a fine of up to $500.
 
She says drones are dangerous for aircraft and hinder efforts when firefighters have to stop doing their jobs to ensure safety.
 
The fire was controlled Sunday night.