Drone Pilot Pushes Back Against ICE "No-Fly Zones" and Wins

In January 2026, federal agents in Minneapolis shot and killed Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, amid protests against immigration raids. Before the facts were fully known, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) branded Good an “anti-ICE rioter” and accused her of “weaponizing her vehicle” in an “act of domestic terrorism.” This rushed narrative set the stage for a sweeping and troubling expansion of no-fly zones.

On January 16, DHS announced a major increase in no-fly zones targeting drones. What used to be limited to controlling aircraft near federal buildings now extended to small drones within 3,000 feet laterally and 1,000 feet vertically of federal facilities. More alarmingly, the order included moving ground vehicles belonging to DHS—even unmarked vehicles on undisclosed routes.

This ambiguous and overbroad policy raised serious concerns for drone operators like Rob Levine, a Minneapolis freelance photojournalist and commercial photographer. Since 2016, Levine had used drones to capture aerial images of Minnesota’s landscapes and public events, including protests against the growing federal presence in his city.

The no-fly notice warned that government agencies could shoot down or seize drones “deemed to pose a credible safety or security threat” and threatened civil and criminal penalties against operators. Levine immediately ceased flying his drones, recognizing the threat to his work and freedom.

But Levine didn’t stop there. He challenged the policy, pushing back against the government’s attempt to silence independent documentation of federal actions. His fight was not just about drones—it was about holding power accountable and defending the right to bear witness.

Levine’s victory marks a rare but vital pushback against expanding federal overreach under the guise of national security. As DHS weaponizes vague “no-fly zones” to shield ICE operations from public scrutiny, this case highlights how authoritarian tactics threaten civil liberties and transparency.

Only Clowns Are Orange will continue tracking these abuses and spotlighting those who dare to resist. When government tries to cloak its actions in secrecy and intimidation, it is up to citizens and journalists to push back and demand accountability.