“Don’t Get Any Ideas” from Netflix’s New Area 51 Documentary"
Legal Expert Warns
James Pipe from Felons Assistance explains the real-life legal risks of trespassing near America’s most secretive military base
Netflix’s explosive new documentary Trainwreck: Area 51 is reigniting public obsession with the mysterious military site, but according to legal expert James Pipe from Felons Assistance, “storming the base” or even getting too close isn’t just reckless, it’s a felony.
“Area 51 isn’t a meme,” warns Pipe. “It’s a classified U.S. Air Force facility with real legal consequences if you try to breach it.”
The Real Rules of Area 51: What Most People Don’t Know
According to Pipe, here are five key facts Netflix viewers, and would-be conspiracy tourists — should understand before getting any ideas:
You don’t have to cross the fence to be arrested
Even being caught near the perimeter can lead to federal charges. Armed guards have discretion to detain and hand over trespassers to local law enforcement or the FBI.
Trespassing at Area 51 can be a felony
Under U.S. Code 18 § 1382, unauthorised entry onto any military installation can result in up to a year in federal prison — and that's before any other charges are considered.
You may be detained without charges at first
Reports have confirmed that some trespassers are detained for hours or days while authorities decide whether to press charges — and phones, cameras, and vehicles are often seized.
Filming is a separate offence
If you record or photograph the base — even from outside restricted zones — you risk violating national security laws, especially if you publish the footage online.
Even the airspace is restricted
Area 51 is surrounded by one of the most protected no-fly zones in the world. Pilots — commercial or private, face severe consequences for even accidental airspace violations.
"Netflix Doesn’t Show You the Courtroom"
“People love the mystery and spectacle, but Netflix doesn’t show you the courtroom,” Pipe adds. “We've advised individuals who thought it would be funny to hike out there or fly drones near the area. Some now have permanent marks on their record — others faced federal court.”
Pipe urges anyone tempted by TikTok trends or conspiracy tourism to think twice before planning a visit.
“There’s a fine line between curiosity and criminality. Just because it’s viral, doesn’t mean it’s legal.”
