The FBI has begun a program for
deterring people from pointing lasers at aircraft, which is a felony
punishable by five years in jail, or more if the laser shooting
person causes an air crash.
Ron Hosko, assistant director of
the FBI Criminal Investigative Division
stated:
Aiming
a laser pointer at an aircraft is a serious matter and a violation of
federal law. It
is important that people understand that this is a criminal act with
potentially deadly repercussions.
The program includes a campaign to
educate the public about the dangers of “lasing” that will
operate for 60 days in twelve FBI field offices where laser strikes
against aircraft have been occurring most frequently. Part of the
program is the offering of a reward up to $10,000 for information
leading to the arrest of any individual who intentionally aims a
laser at an aircraft.
