West Auckland man charged after laser strike on Police Eagle helicopter

A West Auckland man is facing serious charges after allegedly carrying out a series of dangerous laser strikes on a Police Eagle helicopter.

The Eagle was in the Glen Eden area, attending jobs when the crew were allegedly repeatedly targeted by a laser from the ground at 2.35am, police said.

Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen said the laser shone directly into the cockpit of the helicopter.

He said the crew were then hit with glare and flash blindness associated with the strike.

Larsen said onboard technology allowed police to clearly capture the alleged offender in the act and instantly find their address.

“Police ground units arrived quickly and took a 50-year-old man into custody without incident,” Larsen said.

He said the man has since been charged with endangering transport.

“This offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment, recognising the terrible consequences that could occur after lasering any aircraft.

“The Police Eagle helicopter is out there working hard for the protection and safety of our community, and this type of behaviour is unacceptable,” Larsen said.

The 50-year-old man will appear in the Waitākere District Court on April 20.

Police say they are limited in further comment as this matter is now before the court.

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