FAA probes drone activist after animal-rights videos target California cattle ranch

The FAA has initiated a formal inquiry into Joseph Allman, a drone operator affiliated with Direct Action Everywhere, after a complaint was lodged concerning a flight over Grimmius Cattle Co.’s East Ranch in Strathmore, California. Allman, a licensed pilot since 2016 who previously ran a commercial drone business, says he follows all FAA regulations and disputes claims that his drone was out of sight. The investigation follows earlier footage by the group that showed ranch workers mistreating calves, leading to a worker’s dismissal.

While Allman also faces unrelated criminal charges for removing two baby goats from a dairy farm, the FAA probe focuses solely on the aerial operation. The cattle company, represented by COO Austin Flores, has advocated for new rules that would limit drone flights over agricultural facilities, citing food-security concerns. Activists warn that such regulations could hamper efforts to expose animal cruelty on farms.