Former Treyarch Co-Founder Admits Guilt in Drone Collision with Firefighting Aircraft During Los Angeles Wildfires
Peter T. Akemann, one of the co-founders of the Call of Responsibility studio Treyarch, recently pleaded guilty and accepted a plea deal after operating a drone during the Los Angeles wildfires this past January, which caused damage to a firefighting aircraft.
On January 9, Akemann’s drone flew over the Palisades area while a Super Scooper water-dropping plane was battling the flames. His drone collided with the left wing of the Scooper, necessitating its grounding for repairs.
By accepting a guilty plea, he avoided a potentially lengthy prison sentence of up to one year and is required to perform 150 hours of community service supporting Southern California’s wildfire recovery efforts. Additionally, he will pay $65,000 to cover the repairs for the Scooper.
According to theplea agreement, his drone was “at least 2,500 meters from its launch point, and [he] lost visual contact with the drone while operating it. […] The defendant admits that his use and control of the drone recklessly interfered with and disrupted the operation of the firefighting aircraft, posing an immediate safety risk to the people on board.”
In a statement, acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally emphasized that the damage caused by Akemann’s drone “illustrates the significant risks of flying drones during emergencies, jeopardizing the safety of personnel trying to assist others and impeding the overall effectiveness of police and firefighting operations. As evidenced in this case, we will pursue drone operators who break the law and obstruct the vital work of our first responders.”
According to The Verge, Akemann recently stepped down from his position as president of Skydance Interactive. He joined the company in 2016, and both his LinkedIn and X accounts have been deleted following the incident.
Akemann’s attorneys released a statement expressing that the Treyarch co-founder is “deeply remorseful” for the event and accepts responsibility for his serious lapse in judgment, and is cooperating with authorities in his attempt to make amends.”