WASHINGTON — The Florida postal carrier charged Thursday with two federal crimes for steering his small gyrocopter through protected Washington airspace “literally flew under the radar” to the lawn of the Capitol, said Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson.
Doug Hughes, 61, was charged with violating restricted airspace and operating an unregistered aircraft, crimes that carry penalties of up to four years in prison and fines.
He was released from custody and allowed to return to Florida on home detention. A federal magistrate judge ordered him not to fly any aircraft and told him to stay away from Washington except for court visits and keep clear of the White House and Capitol.
Hughes’ stunt, aimed at drawing attention to the need for campaign finance reform, exposed a seam in the U.S. government’s efforts to protect the White House, Capitol and other vital federal buildings.
The stunt caused no injuries and few disruptions as Hughes flew in low and slow, landing between the Capitol and its reflecting pool in broad daylight Wednesday.
But lawmakers demanded explanations for how he managed to remain undetected as he flew the lightweight craft all the way onto the National Mall from Gettysburg, Penn.
Concerns were only magnified by the confirmation that Hughes was interviewed in 2013 by the U.S. Secret Service, which apparently determined he did not pose a threat, said Rep. Elijah Cummings of Maryland, top Democrat on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee.
Lawmakers of both parties expressed disbelief that none of the multiple security agencies tasked with protecting Washington became aware of Hughes’ flight in time to stop it.
Secret Service officials disputed reports that they had been warned in advance by the Tampa Bay Times, contending that the newspaper’s reporter called to inquire about a protest, but offered no specific warning.
