NJ officials skeptical as Pentagon denies involvement in drones

The US Defense Department denied its involvement in the mysterious drone activity that’s confounded officials in New York and New Jersey, prompting skepticism among some local leaders. Major General Pat Ryder told reporters Tuesday that none of the drones spotted in those areas are being flown by the Pentagon or are part of secret government tests, saying they’re most likely a combination of commercial or hobbyist drones. While top department officials take seriously any cases of drones flying near or over US military sites, he said this wasn’t a new concern given the volume of daily drone flights. “Is it possible that some of those drones could be up to malign activity? It’s entirely possible, but the vast majority, that is not the case,” Ryder said. “In the case of drones flying near or over US military installations, that in and of itself just given the volume of drone flights we see on a given day, is not something that’s new.” The comments came as speculation abounded about the source of the drones and state officials, as well as President-elect Donald Trump, demand information from federal authorities. The White House hosted a call Monday with politicians and lawmakers from New Jersey — where sightings began mid-November — and on Tuesday President Joe Biden said there was no sense of danger.<br/>