Drones and what these small, unmanned aircraft can carry will be at issue before a federal judge in New Haven on Wednesday, in a case centering around two videos posted to YouTube.
The first video is titled "Flying Gun," and features a small flying drone, firing a handgun attached to it. The other video, uploaded to the same YouTube channel, shows a drone outfitted with a flamethrower -- hovering, and spitting fire as it roasts what's described as "the holiday turkey."
The drones were built by Austin Haughwout, a 19-year-old from Clinton.
Both videos sparked an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration, which issued subpoenas to Haughwout and his father.
In court filings, the agency said it wants more information on the unmanned aircraft featured in both videos, and said it wants to interview the Haughwouts to determine whether the drones were operated recklessly.
But the Haughwouts said they won't comply with the subpoenas unless compelled by a court order.
In a motion filed in May, the pair's lawyer argued the unmanned "drone" doesn't fit within the FAA's definition of an "aircraft," and it said the subpoenas constitute an unreasonable search.
On Wednesday, a judge will hear arguments in the case. A ruling from the bench isn't expected, which means any final verdict on whether the subpoenas can proceed will likely take weeks.
