A 13-year-old boy in Florida has been arrested and charged with a felony after pointing a laser at a sheriff's office helicopter.
A 13-year-old boy in Florida has been arrested and charged with a felony for pointing a laser at a sheriff's office helicopter. The incident occurred on Saturday, August 13, when deputies from the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office were conducting aerial surveillance in the area.
According to the sheriff's office, the helicopter was flying at an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet when the pilot observed a green laser being pointed at the aircraft. The pilot immediately reported the incident to ground units, who responded to the area and located the suspect.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released due to his age, was taken into custody and charged with a felony count of pointing a laser at aircraft. The sheriff's office said that the boy could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal offense, and it can be extremely dangerous. Lasers can temporarily blind pilots, which can lead to accidents and serious injuries. In this case, the pilot of the sheriff's office helicopter was able to maintain control of the aircraft and land safely, but the incident highlights the potential risks associated with pointing lasers at aircraft.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has strict regulations regarding the use of lasers near aircraft. It is illegal to point a laser at an aircraft within a five-mile radius of an airport, and it is also illegal to point a laser at an aircraft that is flying below an altitude of 3,000 feet.
Anyone who violates the FAA's regulations can face civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation. In addition, individuals who point lasers at aircraft can also be charged with criminal offenses, such as felony assault.
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is urging the public to be aware of the dangers of pointing lasers at aircraft. If you see someone pointing a laser at an aircraft, please report it to the authorities immediately.
