L@ser & searchlight attacks on aircraft (incl prison sentences on offenders)
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Further to post 120:- you also get a piture of this fine youth! I dpnt know what the relavance of "who has tattoos on his arm and neck" but I supose it set the scene.
Laser pen yob faces jail - Wigan Today
Published Date: 18 August 2009
A WIGAN man is facing jail after admitting he endangered a police helicopter by flashing a laser pen at it.
Sean Holt was warned to expect custody after he pleaded guilty to risking those inside the aircraft.
The 22-year-old was outside his home on the evening of May 21 this year when he committed the offence.
He flashed the laser pen illuminating the inside of the cockpit but the crew were able to pinpoint his location.
The information was relayed to colleagues on the ground and officers went to his home.
They found him with the laser pen and when arrested admitted his responsibility. He was later interviewed and again accepted his guilt.
Shaven-headed Holt, who has tattoos on his arm and neck, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court yesterday (tues).
Holt, of West Avenue, Golborne, pleaded guilty to recklessly or negligently acting in a manner likely to endanger an aircraft.
The Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Henry Globe QC told him: "You have pleaded guilty to an offence which is coming before the courts with increasing regularity.
"It is a serious offence. You must understand the likelihood is that the court will pass a custodial sentence.
"In granting you bail that is no indication of what the sentence will be. All options remain open, including that custodial sentence."
Holt was granted bail until September 11 when he will be sentenced.
Police said they would not comment on the case until after Holt had been sentenced but they have been known in the past to take a dim view of those who think it a lark to use laser pens to interfere with their work.
Laser pen yob faces jail - Wigan Today
Published Date: 18 August 2009
A WIGAN man is facing jail after admitting he endangered a police helicopter by flashing a laser pen at it.
Sean Holt was warned to expect custody after he pleaded guilty to risking those inside the aircraft.
The 22-year-old was outside his home on the evening of May 21 this year when he committed the offence.
He flashed the laser pen illuminating the inside of the cockpit but the crew were able to pinpoint his location.
The information was relayed to colleagues on the ground and officers went to his home.
They found him with the laser pen and when arrested admitted his responsibility. He was later interviewed and again accepted his guilt.
Shaven-headed Holt, who has tattoos on his arm and neck, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court yesterday (tues).
Holt, of West Avenue, Golborne, pleaded guilty to recklessly or negligently acting in a manner likely to endanger an aircraft.
The Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Henry Globe QC told him: "You have pleaded guilty to an offence which is coming before the courts with increasing regularity.
"It is a serious offence. You must understand the likelihood is that the court will pass a custodial sentence.
"In granting you bail that is no indication of what the sentence will be. All options remain open, including that custodial sentence."
Holt was granted bail until September 11 when he will be sentenced.
Police said they would not comment on the case until after Holt had been sentenced but they have been known in the past to take a dim view of those who think it a lark to use laser pens to interfere with their work.
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I was on duty when this idiot was illuminating the Helicopter, but was stuck in the Office, the lad on scene shouted up "what am I locking him up for?" I was beaten to the PTT switch by the arial obs cop. It would have been a lock up to be proud of, and it still get me going today missing that one.
...And another
Prosecution in Derbyshire today. 8 month sentence suspended for 18 months and 150 hours unpaid community service. Think he got off lightly.
'Stupid' dad spared jail after laser put chopper in danger
'Stupid' dad spared jail after laser put chopper in danger
Last edited by Fortyodd2; 22nd Aug 2009 at 17:02. Reason: To add link
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Another one locked up!
From Thurrock Gazette - 31st July 2009:
A CHADWELL St Mary man who endangered the lives of police officers operating a helicopter has been jailed.
On April 25 last year Michael May, 53, of Ruskin Road, repeatedly shone a laser pen directly into the cockpit of an Essex Police Helicopter while it was in pursuit of a suspect in Chadwell St Mary.
May was sentenced to six months at Southend Crown Court on Friday.
He had admitted the offence at a previous hearing at Basildon Crown Court in January, but insisted that while he was in possession of a laser, he didn’t intentionally target the helicopter.
Prosecuting lawyer, Ian Elkins said: “Not only did May act in a reckless manner with potentially fatal consequences, endangering the aircraft and the officers in it, but he also prevented the officers from doing their job.
“However, the helicopter was able to locate the origin of the laser beam and this eventually led officers to May’s door.
“We were able to provide the court with the evidence to prove that he repeatedly targeted the helicopter with no regards for the possible consequences.
He added: “The sentence today highlights the dangers involved in the use of laser beams, especially involving aircraft, and we hope this will act as a deterrent to others.
“In this case, May risked the lives of the officers and other members of the public as he could have caused an air accident. He also distracted the officers and a potentially dangerous offender could have evaded justice.”
Written in nice short sentences for the locals to understand!
A CHADWELL St Mary man who endangered the lives of police officers operating a helicopter has been jailed.
On April 25 last year Michael May, 53, of Ruskin Road, repeatedly shone a laser pen directly into the cockpit of an Essex Police Helicopter while it was in pursuit of a suspect in Chadwell St Mary.
May was sentenced to six months at Southend Crown Court on Friday.
He had admitted the offence at a previous hearing at Basildon Crown Court in January, but insisted that while he was in possession of a laser, he didn’t intentionally target the helicopter.
Prosecuting lawyer, Ian Elkins said: “Not only did May act in a reckless manner with potentially fatal consequences, endangering the aircraft and the officers in it, but he also prevented the officers from doing their job.
“However, the helicopter was able to locate the origin of the laser beam and this eventually led officers to May’s door.
“We were able to provide the court with the evidence to prove that he repeatedly targeted the helicopter with no regards for the possible consequences.
He added: “The sentence today highlights the dangers involved in the use of laser beams, especially involving aircraft, and we hope this will act as a deterrent to others.
“In this case, May risked the lives of the officers and other members of the public as he could have caused an air accident. He also distracted the officers and a potentially dangerous offender could have evaded justice.”
Written in nice short sentences for the locals to understand!
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BBC NEWS | UK | England | Surrey | Woman dazzled pilot 'for a laugh'
Woman dazzled pilot 'for a laugh'
A woman who dazzled a Surrey Police pilot with a laser pen "for a laugh" has been given a suspended sentence. Mark Tuson had to look away from the windows and use the instrumentation to steer the helicopter when Natasha Forster shone the light at the cockpit. Forster, 21, formerly of Staines, but now of Rochester Avenue in Feltham, was given a six-month sentence, suspended for two years, by Staines magistrates. She was sentenced after admitting endangering an aircraft. Mr Tuson had been responding to a call-out in Staines and was flying at more than 1,000ft (305m) when the incident happened on 10 August. He said the distraction of the beam flooding the cockpit could have had "catastrophic consequences". Surrey Police said when Forster was arrested she said she shone the green laser light at the helicopter "for a laugh". Insp Steve Cheeseman said: "Laser pens can be very powerful and to shine one into the cockpit of any aircraft during flight is extremely dangerous. "It could easily blind or distract the pilot and puts everyone on board at risk. "The sentence handed out sends a clear warning to anyone else considering such reckless behaviour." Forster was also ordered to carry out 180 hours of unpaid work.
Woman dazzled pilot 'for a laugh'
A woman who dazzled a Surrey Police pilot with a laser pen "for a laugh" has been given a suspended sentence. Mark Tuson had to look away from the windows and use the instrumentation to steer the helicopter when Natasha Forster shone the light at the cockpit. Forster, 21, formerly of Staines, but now of Rochester Avenue in Feltham, was given a six-month sentence, suspended for two years, by Staines magistrates. She was sentenced after admitting endangering an aircraft. Mr Tuson had been responding to a call-out in Staines and was flying at more than 1,000ft (305m) when the incident happened on 10 August. He said the distraction of the beam flooding the cockpit could have had "catastrophic consequences". Surrey Police said when Forster was arrested she said she shone the green laser light at the helicopter "for a laugh". Insp Steve Cheeseman said: "Laser pens can be very powerful and to shine one into the cockpit of any aircraft during flight is extremely dangerous. "It could easily blind or distract the pilot and puts everyone on board at risk. "The sentence handed out sends a clear warning to anyone else considering such reckless behaviour." Forster was also ordered to carry out 180 hours of unpaid work.
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Insp Steve Cheeseman said:
"The sentence handed out sends a clear warning to anyone else considering such reckless behaviour."
"The sentence handed out sends a clear warning to anyone else considering such reckless behaviour."
The right message was sent out last year.
Maybe the Staines magistrates court didn't get it.
Legalapproach
Prison sentence upheld for l@zer louts
Some of you may recall a recent thread concerning two oafs who had targeted a l@zer pen at a police helicopter. They came before HH Judge Owen at Snaresbrook Crown Court who sentenced them to six months custody.
The Court of Appeal recently considered their appeals and dismissed them observing that in the view of their Lordships the case clearly crossed the custody threshold and such a case could not be dealt with by any lesser penalty.
The court further observed that His Honour Judge Owen "plainly took a great deal of care over this case." In passing sentence the learned judge said the message should go out that people who target helicopters in this idiotic and dangerous way should expect to receive custodial sentences.
Some of you may recall a recent thread concerning two oafs who had targeted a l@zer pen at a police helicopter. They came before HH Judge Owen at Snaresbrook Crown Court who sentenced them to six months custody.
The Court of Appeal recently considered their appeals and dismissed them observing that in the view of their Lordships the case clearly crossed the custody threshold and such a case could not be dealt with by any lesser penalty.
The court further observed that His Honour Judge Owen "plainly took a great deal of care over this case." In passing sentence the learned judge said the message should go out that people who target helicopters in this idiotic and dangerous way should expect to receive custodial sentences.
"Few cases of this sort come before the court, in part because it is often difficult to apprehend those on the ground. In our judgment the learned judge was right to make it clear that custodial sentences will usually follow when offenders committing this offence are caught."
Question for police pilots here -
Does anyone make sure other courts know what the Court of Appeal said?
Does anyone make sure the prosecutor knows what the Court of Appeal said so he can tell the court?
Last edited by Bronx; 26th Aug 2009 at 21:23.
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September 2008:
CAA Press Release April 2009:
CAA Press Release January 2010:
So -
Initiates a specific offence to deal with the problem:
- That gives the courts no power to impose custodial sentences!!!
- That limits the maximum fine that can be imposed to £2500.
- That is triable in the Magistrates Courts only, not by Judges in the Crown Court.
*"Offenders may now be charged with ‘shining a light at an aircraft in flight so as to dazzle the pilot’, which it is expected will increase the conviction rate."*
"Increase the conviction rate"?
How many (if any) laser louts prosecuted under the old law (Endangering) have not been convicted? As far as I know: None!
The courts used to impose fines when lasers attacks were relatively rare.
When they became much more prevalent and a serious problem in the past couple of years, the courts sensibly imposed more severe punishments and started sending people to prison.
This new offence takes us back to fines!
Prison sentence upheld for l@zer louts *
Some of you may recall a recent thread concerning two oafs who had targeted a l@zer pen at a police helicopter. They came before HH Judge Tudor Owen at Snaresbrook Crown Court who sentenced them to six months custody.
The Court of Appeal recently considered their appeals and dismissed them observing that in the view of their Lordships the case clearly crossed the custody threshold and such a case could not be dealt with by any lesser penalty.
The Court further observed that His Honour Judge Owen "plainly took a great deal of care over this case." In passing sentence the learned judge said the message should go out that people who target helicopters in this idiotic and dangerous way should expect to receive custodial sentences.
"In our judgment the learned judge was right to make it clear that custodial sentences will usually follow when offenders committing this offence are caught*."
Some of you may recall a recent thread concerning two oafs who had targeted a l@zer pen at a police helicopter. They came before HH Judge Tudor Owen at Snaresbrook Crown Court who sentenced them to six months custody.
The Court of Appeal recently considered their appeals and dismissed them observing that in the view of their Lordships the case clearly crossed the custody threshold and such a case could not be dealt with by any lesser penalty.
The Court further observed that His Honour Judge Owen "plainly took a great deal of care over this case." In passing sentence the learned judge said the message should go out that people who target helicopters in this idiotic and dangerous way should expect to receive custodial sentences.
"In our judgment the learned judge was right to make it clear that custodial sentences will usually follow when offenders committing this offence are caught*."
"Laser louts to be targeted in new campaign"
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is today launching a campaign to tackle the growing problem of lasers being maliciously directed at aeroplanes and helicopters, which can cause a significant safety risk. The move follows a dramatic rise in the number of incidents of pilots being distracted by lasers during critical phases of flight. During 2008 a total of 206 cases were reported to the CAA, compared with only 29 in 2007.
"There have already been a number of successful prosecutions in the UK with offenders receiving custodial sentences, and the new campaign aims to highlight the penalties that they face."
Bob Jones, Head of Flight Operations at the CAA, said: “To those individuals targeting aircraft with laser devices the message is clear – don’t. You will be caught and you will be prosecuted and *you could spend up to five years in prison*.”
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is today launching a campaign to tackle the growing problem of lasers being maliciously directed at aeroplanes and helicopters, which can cause a significant safety risk. The move follows a dramatic rise in the number of incidents of pilots being distracted by lasers during critical phases of flight. During 2008 a total of 206 cases were reported to the CAA, compared with only 29 in 2007.
"There have already been a number of successful prosecutions in the UK with offenders receiving custodial sentences, and the new campaign aims to highlight the penalties that they face."
Bob Jones, Head of Flight Operations at the CAA, said: “To those individuals targeting aircraft with laser devices the message is clear – don’t. You will be caught and you will be prosecuted and *you could spend up to five years in prison*.”
CAA Press Release January 2010:
"New powers to tackle aircraft laser crime introduced"
A new law that makes shining a light or laser at an aircraft a specific criminal offence has been introduced. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which initiated the new law, said it was in response to the growing number of incidents involving laser devices being shone at airliners and helicopters near British airports.
Previously, anyone caught shining a laser at an aircraft may have been charged with ‘recklessly endangering an aircraft’. Offenders may now be charged with ‘shining a light at an aircraft in flight so as to dazzle the pilot’, which it is expected will increase the conviction rate.
The CAA said that distracting or dazzling a pilot with a light or laser represented a serious safety risk.
The numbers of reported incidents of this type have increased 25 times in only two years. In 2009 there were a total of 737 attacks with lasers on commercial airliners, air ambulances and police helicopters across the UK, a considerable increase on the 29 incidents in 2007. Although there have been around a dozen successful prosecutions so far, many more arrests are expected as police air support units roll out new technology to catch offenders.
Bob Jones, Head of Flight Operations at the CAA, said
“This new criminal charge will strengthen the hand of law enforcement agencies in their efforts to tackle this problem. I advise individuals who may think shining a laser at an aircraft is a bit of fun, to think again. The chances of getting caught are increasing rapidly and, once caught, criminal charges are now inevitable."
The malicious use of lasers against aircraft has become a global problem in recent years with large numbers of incidents reported in the USA, Australia and Canada. 737 in the UK in 2009.
A new law that makes shining a light or laser at an aircraft a specific criminal offence has been introduced. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which initiated the new law, said it was in response to the growing number of incidents involving laser devices being shone at airliners and helicopters near British airports.
Previously, anyone caught shining a laser at an aircraft may have been charged with ‘recklessly endangering an aircraft’. Offenders may now be charged with ‘shining a light at an aircraft in flight so as to dazzle the pilot’, which it is expected will increase the conviction rate.
The CAA said that distracting or dazzling a pilot with a light or laser represented a serious safety risk.
The numbers of reported incidents of this type have increased 25 times in only two years. In 2009 there were a total of 737 attacks with lasers on commercial airliners, air ambulances and police helicopters across the UK, a considerable increase on the 29 incidents in 2007. Although there have been around a dozen successful prosecutions so far, many more arrests are expected as police air support units roll out new technology to catch offenders.
Bob Jones, Head of Flight Operations at the CAA, said
“This new criminal charge will strengthen the hand of law enforcement agencies in their efforts to tackle this problem. I advise individuals who may think shining a laser at an aircraft is a bit of fun, to think again. The chances of getting caught are increasing rapidly and, once caught, criminal charges are now inevitable."The malicious use of lasers against aircraft has become a global problem in recent years with large numbers of incidents reported in the USA, Australia and Canada. 737 in the UK in 2009.
- A serious safety risk
- A dramatic increase in reported incidents (x 25 in only two years)
- 2007: 29
- 2008: 206
- 2009: 737
- A Judge says the message should go out that people who target helicopters in this idiotic and dangerous way should expect to receive custodial sentences.
- The Court of Appeal says the Judge was right.
Initiates a specific offence to deal with the problem:
- That gives the courts no power to impose custodial sentences!!!
- That limits the maximum fine that can be imposed to £2500.
- That is triable in the Magistrates Courts only, not by Judges in the Crown Court.
*"Offenders may now be charged with ‘shining a light at an aircraft in flight so as to dazzle the pilot’, which it is expected will increase the conviction rate."*
"Increase the conviction rate"?
How many (if any) laser louts prosecuted under the old law (Endangering) have not been convicted? As far as I know: None!
The courts used to impose fines when lasers attacks were relatively rare.
When they became much more prevalent and a serious problem in the past couple of years, the courts sensibly imposed more severe punishments and started sending people to prison.
This new offence takes us back to fines!
man convicted for shining laser (Germany)
A man was convicted on 13 Jan 2010 for shining a laser onto a police helicopter and thereby blinding the pilot - who luckly was flying with the autopilot engaged. Sentence was 10 month prison - on probation - and 1000 € (wich ~ one month pay)
Polizeipresse: Landesamt für Zentrale Polizeiliche Dienste NRW - POL-LZPD: Polizeihubschrauber mit Laser geblendet - 10 Monate Haft auf Bewährung und 1.000,- Euro Geldstrafe
Blinding occured July 2008
Greetings Flying Bull
Polizeipresse: Landesamt für Zentrale Polizeiliche Dienste NRW - POL-LZPD: Polizeihubschrauber mit Laser geblendet - 10 Monate Haft auf Bewährung und 1.000,- Euro Geldstrafe
Blinding occured July 2008
Greetings Flying Bull
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Might be a good idea for the CPS to have that case up their sleeve to advise the judge/bench for future cases. However, getting them to be consistent and effective has proved a rather difficult thing in the past, as many UK police officers will be able to confirm 
The CAA recently added another offence which will make it easier to get a conviction for a lesser offence. Paraphrasing, it is now an offence to point a laser or light at an aircraft in a way that might dazzle the pilot. One of the perceived problems with the previous offence was that the prosecution needed to prove endangerment. That is no longer required with the new offence.
There is a degree of lack of joined-up thinking about this. I recently read in a UK sailing magazine about emergency flare replacements that are being sold. They consist of a high-powered laser (30 nm optical range) to be used to shine at SAR helicopters and lifeboats DUH! [The "need" for these has occurred after one or two sailors have been injured when flares have mis-fired]
The CAA recently added another offence which will make it easier to get a conviction for a lesser offence. Paraphrasing, it is now an offence to point a laser or light at an aircraft in a way that might dazzle the pilot. One of the perceived problems with the previous offence was that the prosecution needed to prove endangerment. That is no longer required with the new offence.
There is a degree of lack of joined-up thinking about this. I recently read in a UK sailing magazine about emergency flare replacements that are being sold. They consist of a high-powered laser (30 nm optical range) to be used to shine at SAR helicopters and lifeboats DUH! [The "need" for these has occurred after one or two sailors have been injured when flares have mis-fired]
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Helinut
Perceived by who?
There's been lots of convictions for endangering reported in this forum and in R&N. Has anybody got off?
Legalapproach says in the R&N thread he's "not aware of an unsuccesful prosecution where reckless endangerment was charged for shining a light/laser."
Would have been, but the maximum punishment for the new offense is a fine so the judge/bench can't send them to jail.
There sure is.
We gotta serious problem and it's growing real quick.
What shall we do?
I know, let's make the punishments softer.
Good Thinking Batman!
One of the perceived problems with the previous offence was that the prosecution needed to prove endangerment.
There's been lots of convictions for endangering reported in this forum and in R&N. Has anybody got off?
Legalapproach says in the R&N thread he's "not aware of an unsuccesful prosecution where reckless endangerment was charged for shining a light/laser."
Might be a good idea for the CPS to have that case up their sleeve to advise the judge/bench for future cases.
There is a degree of lack of joined-up thinking about this.
We gotta serious problem and it's growing real quick.
What shall we do?
I know, let's make the punishments softer.
Good Thinking Batman!
Last edited by Bronx; 14th Jan 2010 at 19:58.
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The lack of perceived evidence about endangerment is in the minds of SOME CPS people looking at some cases here in the UK. Lots of cases have not been taken to court because of these concerns, which is why the new lesser offence has been created. [In some cases, I suspect they would be right - it does depend on the evidence - the last thing you want is scrotes being found not guilty].
My comment about the CPS advising the court of the Court of appeal judgment related to the endangering offence, which remains and certainly allows jail sentences.
I can't agree with your last comment. If you compare it with assaults, then it makes sense to have various offences reflecting different seriousness of the circumstances. In the UK it goes something like: common assault, actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm, attempt murder and so on. Which one is chosen depends on the evidence.
Horses for courses.......
My comment about the CPS advising the court of the Court of appeal judgment related to the endangering offence, which remains and certainly allows jail sentences.
I can't agree with your last comment. If you compare it with assaults, then it makes sense to have various offences reflecting different seriousness of the circumstances. In the UK it goes something like: common assault, actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm, attempt murder and so on. Which one is chosen depends on the evidence.
Horses for courses.......
Chief Bottle Washer
Gazette Live
Two teens arrested under Air Navigation Order
Jan 26 2010 by Andrew Pain, Evening Gazette
TWO teenagers have become the first to be arrested under new laws in the Teesside area for shining lights at aircraft pilots.
Cleveland Air Operations Unit arrested two 14-year-old boys this weekend under the Air Navigation Order, which came into force on January 1 this year.
The legislation enables officers to detain a person who is suspected of “directing or shining any light at any aircraft in flight so as to dazzle or distract the pilot”.
The first incident occurred on Saturday, January 23, at around 11.55pm when the police helicopter was over the Hardwick area in Stockton and a high-powered torch was shone at the aircraft.
A 14-year-old boy from the Hardwick area was arrested. He has since been charged with an offence under the new act and will appear at youth court on Tuesday, February 2.
Yesterday, the helicopter was flying over the Thornaby area when a laser pen was shone at the aircraft from an upstairs window. Officers on the ground arrested a 14-year-old boy who has since been reported for summons.
Inspector Simon Wilkinson, head of the Air Operations Unit, said: “We take incidents such as these extremely seriously. Shining lights at pilots can dazzle them and this endangers lives. The recent change in the law has clarified that shining a light at an aircraft is an offence and we will deal with the people that commit these offences robustly.”
Jan 26 2010 by Andrew Pain, Evening Gazette
TWO teenagers have become the first to be arrested under new laws in the Teesside area for shining lights at aircraft pilots.
Cleveland Air Operations Unit arrested two 14-year-old boys this weekend under the Air Navigation Order, which came into force on January 1 this year.
The legislation enables officers to detain a person who is suspected of “directing or shining any light at any aircraft in flight so as to dazzle or distract the pilot”.
The first incident occurred on Saturday, January 23, at around 11.55pm when the police helicopter was over the Hardwick area in Stockton and a high-powered torch was shone at the aircraft.
A 14-year-old boy from the Hardwick area was arrested. He has since been charged with an offence under the new act and will appear at youth court on Tuesday, February 2.
Yesterday, the helicopter was flying over the Thornaby area when a laser pen was shone at the aircraft from an upstairs window. Officers on the ground arrested a 14-year-old boy who has since been reported for summons.
Inspector Simon Wilkinson, head of the Air Operations Unit, said: “We take incidents such as these extremely seriously. Shining lights at pilots can dazzle them and this endangers lives. The recent change in the law has clarified that shining a light at an aircraft is an offence and we will deal with the people that commit these offences robustly.”
Chief Bottle Washer
March 2009, but still topical:
Chief Bottle Washer
But this one was yesterday: the new ANO being used
Gazette Live UK
Stockton teen fined for shining light at helicopter
Feb 3 2010 by Andy Passant, Evening Gazette
A TEENAGER has become the first to be punished on Teesside under new laws on shining lights at aircraft.
The 14-year-old Stockton schoolboy is one of the first in the country to be prosecuted since the laws came into force last month.
The teenager was arrested after he shone a high-powered lamp at the Cleveland Police helicopter and switched it on and off a number of times. The youngster, who had been with two other youths, was tracked down to his Hardwick home.
The boy, who can’t be named, admitted his involvement. He said the high-powered spot lamp was used to go “lamping” - hunting for rabbits.
He said he was trying to sell the lamp and had shone it at the helicopter to demonstrate it.
Yesterday he appeared before a district judge at Teesside Youth Court. He admitted the offence under the Air Navigation Order, which came into force on January 1 this year.
The law enables police to detain those suspected of “directing or shining any light at any aircraft in flight so as to dazzle or distract the pilot”.
The teen, who was accompanied by his mum, was fined £210 with a £15 victim surcharge.
The youth is no stranger to the justice system and has a number of court dates coming up, including an allegation of affray. District Judge Kristina Harrison said: “I can imagine your mother is heartily sick of paying fines for you.”
The boy’s solicitor Brett Wildridge said the teen lives with his mum and young sister. He has had no contact with his father since he was very young.
Cleveland Police welcomed the outcome of the case. Sergeant Dave Clark said he hoped the new legislation and the outcome of the case will deter people from committing these sort of acts.
Feb 3 2010 by Andy Passant, Evening Gazette
A TEENAGER has become the first to be punished on Teesside under new laws on shining lights at aircraft.
The 14-year-old Stockton schoolboy is one of the first in the country to be prosecuted since the laws came into force last month.
The teenager was arrested after he shone a high-powered lamp at the Cleveland Police helicopter and switched it on and off a number of times. The youngster, who had been with two other youths, was tracked down to his Hardwick home.
The boy, who can’t be named, admitted his involvement. He said the high-powered spot lamp was used to go “lamping” - hunting for rabbits.
He said he was trying to sell the lamp and had shone it at the helicopter to demonstrate it.
Yesterday he appeared before a district judge at Teesside Youth Court. He admitted the offence under the Air Navigation Order, which came into force on January 1 this year.
The law enables police to detain those suspected of “directing or shining any light at any aircraft in flight so as to dazzle or distract the pilot”.
The teen, who was accompanied by his mum, was fined £210 with a £15 victim surcharge.
The youth is no stranger to the justice system and has a number of court dates coming up, including an allegation of affray. District Judge Kristina Harrison said: “I can imagine your mother is heartily sick of paying fines for you.”
The boy’s solicitor Brett Wildridge said the teen lives with his mum and young sister. He has had no contact with his father since he was very young.
Cleveland Police welcomed the outcome of the case. Sergeant Dave Clark said he hoped the new legislation and the outcome of the case will deter people from committing these sort of acts.
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Hurrah
About time the criminal justice system took some action against scumbags.
Has anyone else noticed that at the end of these reality "cops with cameras" -type TV shows the comentators summary always seems to go along the lines of:
" The person found with the hunting knife and the drugs in his car was later released without charge........the couple who smashed the windows were bound over to keep the peace..... the man caught with no licence or insurance was given 6 points (on the licence he doesnt bother with)....the teenager riding the stolen bike was released without charge"
It just makes you wonder why anyone bothers trying to catch them in the first place!
Oh no, I've turned into a grumpy old man......best I go and buy a pipe & slippers!
Has anyone else noticed that at the end of these reality "cops with cameras" -type TV shows the comentators summary always seems to go along the lines of:
" The person found with the hunting knife and the drugs in his car was later released without charge........the couple who smashed the windows were bound over to keep the peace..... the man caught with no licence or insurance was given 6 points (on the licence he doesnt bother with)....the teenager riding the stolen bike was released without charge"
It just makes you wonder why anyone bothers trying to catch them in the first place!
Oh no, I've turned into a grumpy old man......best I go and buy a pipe & slippers!
Moderator
Another laser toting goof charged:
Ontario man, 19, faces charges after laser beam aimed at police helicopter - 680News
His punishment should be a blindfold for a long time...
Ontario man, 19, faces charges after laser beam aimed at police helicopter
The Canadian Press Apr 06, 2010 17:27:51 PM
AJAX, Ont. - A 19-year-old man from Ajax, Ont., faces several charges after allegedly pointing a hand-held laser beam at an aircraft.
It happened last Saturday and Durham Region police say the targeted aircraft was one of their helicopters.
The chopper was low over Ajax helping officers find a suspected drunk driver when an intense green light hit the cockpit.
The pilot had to take immediate evasive action and descended rapidly in an attempt to avoid the laser strikes.
The crew used on-board infrared technology to pinpoint the location of the beam and found a suspect in the backyard of a house.
Charges against Brendon Schownwald include obstructing police and endangering life.
The Canadian Press Apr 06, 2010 17:27:51 PM
AJAX, Ont. - A 19-year-old man from Ajax, Ont., faces several charges after allegedly pointing a hand-held laser beam at an aircraft.
It happened last Saturday and Durham Region police say the targeted aircraft was one of their helicopters.
The chopper was low over Ajax helping officers find a suspected drunk driver when an intense green light hit the cockpit.
The pilot had to take immediate evasive action and descended rapidly in an attempt to avoid the laser strikes.
The crew used on-board infrared technology to pinpoint the location of the beam and found a suspect in the backyard of a house.
Charges against Brendon Schownwald include obstructing police and endangering life.
His punishment should be a blindfold for a long time...
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Not an isolated incident in Toronto
Not an isolated incident in Toronto
Ajax teen charged as laser blinds police pilot
April 06, 2010
Katie Daubs
A 19-year-old Ajax man has been arrested after a laser beam was pointed at a police helicopter.
At 8 p.m. Saturday, a Durham police chopper was flying 365 metres above the streets of Ajax, helping to locate a suspected impaired driver. Suddenly, a dazzling green light illuminated the cockpit, temporarily blinding the crew, police said. The pilot had to duck out of the way to avoid more strikes, and the helicopter dropped quickly.
Nobody was hurt, and the crew used infrared technology to pinpoint where the laser came from.
Brendon Schoenwald, 19, of Ajax, is charged with obstructing police, common nuisance, mischief to property and endangering life. He was also charged under the Aeronautics Act for dangerous behaviour, a conviction which carries a maximum fine of $100,000 and a possible five-year prison sentence.
The laser strike was the latest incident in what police call a disturbing trend.
“This laser is a little thing, but look at how dangerous it can be,” said Durham police Staff Sgt. Allan Mack.
So far this year, pilots have been bothered by lasers on 19 flights at Pearson airport. In February, a pilot flying from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to Sick Kids Hospital in a medevac helicopter complained when a green laser was pointed directly at him while he hovered above the landing pad.
According to Transport Canada’s Civil Daily Occurrence Reporting System, some of the attacks came from a pedestrian walking near Yonge St, a mall parking lot and a Best Buy at Mavis Dr. and Brittania Rd.
The database shows the GTA is a hotbed for laser activity, with 91 per cent of all laser-related incidents in Ontario this year happening in the GTA.
Mack said people might be fooling around with the laser pointers astronomers normally use because of YouTube videos that show the green beams popping balloons, burning through fabric and lighting matches.
“I have no idea what they’re thinking,” he said, adding that the pen-sized pointers can startle a crew and cause the aircraft to crash.
The pointers are banned in some parts of Australia, and the U.S. is handing out lengthy prison terms for their misuse, Mack said.
Mack is hoping for a ban in Canada. He said the Canadian chapter of the Airborne Law Enforcement Association met with police agencies and Transport Canada in November to address that very issue.
York Regional Police have also called for a ban on the high-powered laser pointers after their helicopter was hit on multiple occasions.
April 06, 2010
Katie Daubs
A 19-year-old Ajax man has been arrested after a laser beam was pointed at a police helicopter.
At 8 p.m. Saturday, a Durham police chopper was flying 365 metres above the streets of Ajax, helping to locate a suspected impaired driver. Suddenly, a dazzling green light illuminated the cockpit, temporarily blinding the crew, police said. The pilot had to duck out of the way to avoid more strikes, and the helicopter dropped quickly.
Nobody was hurt, and the crew used infrared technology to pinpoint where the laser came from.
Brendon Schoenwald, 19, of Ajax, is charged with obstructing police, common nuisance, mischief to property and endangering life. He was also charged under the Aeronautics Act for dangerous behaviour, a conviction which carries a maximum fine of $100,000 and a possible five-year prison sentence.
The laser strike was the latest incident in what police call a disturbing trend.
“This laser is a little thing, but look at how dangerous it can be,” said Durham police Staff Sgt. Allan Mack.
So far this year, pilots have been bothered by lasers on 19 flights at Pearson airport. In February, a pilot flying from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to Sick Kids Hospital in a medevac helicopter complained when a green laser was pointed directly at him while he hovered above the landing pad.
According to Transport Canada’s Civil Daily Occurrence Reporting System, some of the attacks came from a pedestrian walking near Yonge St, a mall parking lot and a Best Buy at Mavis Dr. and Brittania Rd.
The database shows the GTA is a hotbed for laser activity, with 91 per cent of all laser-related incidents in Ontario this year happening in the GTA.
Mack said people might be fooling around with the laser pointers astronomers normally use because of YouTube videos that show the green beams popping balloons, burning through fabric and lighting matches.
“I have no idea what they’re thinking,” he said, adding that the pen-sized pointers can startle a crew and cause the aircraft to crash.
The pointers are banned in some parts of Australia, and the U.S. is handing out lengthy prison terms for their misuse, Mack said.
Mack is hoping for a ban in Canada. He said the Canadian chapter of the Airborne Law Enforcement Association met with police agencies and Transport Canada in November to address that very issue.
York Regional Police have also called for a ban on the high-powered laser pointers after their helicopter was hit on multiple occasions.
“I have no idea what they’re thinking,” he said, adding that the pen-sized pointers can startle a crew and cause the aircraft to crash.