Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel says drones represent a growing domestic terrorism threat, prompting new countermeasures as the city prepares for major summer events.
Monday, April 27, 2026 9:27PMPhiladelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel says drones represent a growing domestic terrorism threat, prompting new countermeasures as the city prepares for major summer events.
Bethel said Philadelphia police are working with federal partners to deploy systems designed to address potential drone threats during large public gatherings.
"It doesn't shoot the drone down... " It's a process....that'll send the drone back to the sender...or send it to a location that we designate....and there are some other things we can do as well," Bethel said. Jack Tamarchio, a former deputy undersecretary for the Department of Homeland Security and now a consultant, said intelligence gathering is likely already underway behind the scenes.
He said local, state, and federal agencies are monitoring potential threats amid international conflict and heightened political discourse in the United States.
"They are going into the dark web to see what people are talking about. If you're fishing for bad guys...that's where you're putting your fishing line," Tomarchio said. Bethel said security planning for events tied to the country's 250th anniversary and FIFA World Cup matches has been in progress for years. He said $30 million in federal funding will help pay for police overtime as part of those efforts.
"We feel confident that we will be able to go through this process and assure the safety of those attending," he said. He encouraged residents and visitors to remain alert and report suspicious activity, saying public vigilance can help save lives.
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