Man caught flying drone during Phillies game at citizens bank park.

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) –Stadium security and police were called after a man was caught flying a drone during a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park in South Philadelphia.

It happened around 4:00 Sunday afternoon.

Authorities say it was spotted flying near third base but it’s not clear how high the drone actually went.

Phillies staff saw the drone from inside the ballpark but it landed outside.

Action News was there as the operator was questioned by police.

Phillies security asked the man to erase images that were taken with the drone, citing intellectual property.

They say he fully cooperated.

The drone was confiscated by Eagles security but was later returned by the evening.

Fans had mixed reactions.

“The fact that it wasn’t Phillies oriented concerns me,” said Christina Godio.

“I think it’s kind of cool – the fact that they invested, they bought a drone and a camera to go with it. It’s a lot of effort,” said Alex Martinez.

Action News reached out to the drone operator but he declined to speak with us.

Phillies security joined police along with Eagles security across the street from the stadium.

Police say they’re not sure where the man was standing when he controlled the drone – whether on the property of Lincoln Financial Field or Citizens Bank Park.

Police say security from both stadiums are allowed to stop or detain someone for flying a drone in order to investigate whether they are doing anything criminal.

The FAA prohibits flying drones over stadiums and over large gatherings within one hour of the event.

The sports complex is also within a restricted zone within Philadelphia International Airport.

While no criminal charges will be filed it’s still possible that the operator will face an FAA penalty or even a fine.

Police plan to follow up with the FAA on Monday.

http://6abc.com/news/man-caught-flying-drone-during-phillies-game/758659/