By Mike Hazlip—
Citrus Heights police officers assisted the California Highway Patrol last weekend in taking a suspect into custody for allegedly pointing a laser at a law enforcement helicopter.
Video from a CHP helicopter released on Aug. 20 by the California Highway Patrol Valley Division Air Operations appears to show a green laser flashing from a vehicle parked on a side street near Interstate 80. Citrus Heights Police Sgt. Kane Kissam confirmed the adult male suspect was apprehended on Verner Avenue near Goldenwood Circle after the Highway Patrol’s Air 21 unit identified the location.
Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity, Kissam said.
A social media statement by the agency said the suspect was targeting passing aircraft with the laser. Citrus Heights police assisted the agency in taking him into custody, according to the release. The suspect is facing felony charges.
“We remind the community that striking an aircraft with a laser is extremely dangerous as it can temporarily blind or disorient pilots, potentially leading to loss of control during critical flight phases,” the agency said. “This act is illegal and punishable by severe penalties due to the significant risks it poses to aviation safety.”
Citrus Heights Police assisted the California Highway Patrol last weekend in taking a suspect into custody for pointing a laser at a law enforcement helicopter...
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