WARRANT ARREST MADE AFTER DRONE SHOT OUT OF THE AIR
On April 21, 2025 at approximately 4:15pm, the Lee County Sheriff's Office received a report of an unmanned aerial system (drone) being shot out of the air on County Road 132. Deputies went to the location and made contact with the complainant, who was a personnel with an oil and gas company.
The complainant reported the company had been taking photographs of the oil pad when they heard two gunshots near the drone's location. The pilot lost communication with the drone which caused the drone to fall to the ground. Deputies then made contact with the individual who shot down the drone; who was identified as Garrett Arnold.
Mr. Arnold admitted to shooting the drone and stated he felt the drone had been following him. All parties were explained the act of shooting a drone was a federal violation and the information would be forwarded to the proper agency. Deputies secured video of Mr. Arnold shooting the drone and took statements from all parties before leaving the call.
On April 25, 2025 at approximately 4:40pm, further investigation revealed Mr. Arnold was a convicted felon and therefore was not permitted to possess a firearm. On this day, a Deputy went to Mr. Arnold's residence and seized the firearm used to shoot down the drone.
On May 2, 2025 at approximately 3:30pm, Deputies with the Lee County Sheriff's Office arrested and booked Garrett Arnold of Ledbetter on a warrant for Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon.
Garrett Durrenberger
Sheriff ✩ Lee County
