Man indicted for aiming laser pointer at aircraft in Spokane

SPOKANE, Wash. — A man was indicted on federal charges Monday for aiming a laser pointer at two separate aircraft this past October.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office says Johnny R. Blackstock shines a laser at a Life Flight helicopter that was taking a patient to the Spokane area. Soon after, Blackstock also shined a laser at a Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Air One helicopter on patrol in the area.

“Pointing a laser at an aircraft can have life-threatening consequences. Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies protecting the community and first responders life-flighting a patient for medical help face extreme danger from actions like this,” U.S. Attorney Waldref said. “I am grateful for our law enforcement partners and first responders who put themselves at risk to protect and serve our community.”

The United States Department of Transportation is investigating the case.

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This story was originally published here.

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