Bakersfield Man Pleads Guilty to Laser Attack on Helicopter

Bakersfield’s Alejandro Galvan-Silvestre, 26, has pleaded guilty to aiming a laser pointer at a Kern County Sheriff’s Office helicopter, Air One, during a routine patrol. The U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced the charges against Galvan-Silvestre.

Galvan-Silvestre was enjoying drinks with family and friends outside his residence on September 5, 2021, when he spotted the Air One. He then proceeded to shine the laser at the helicopter, putting pilots and law enforcement at risk.

The year of Galvan-Silvestre’s laser strike saw a record high of 9,723 reported incidents across the nation, according to data by the Federal Aviation Administration. His case is a result of an intensive investigation by the FBI, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, and Bakersfield Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is handling the prosecution. Galvan-Silvestre is due for sentencing on November 17, 2025, facing up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. However, his sentence will be at the discretion of the court after considering all applicable factors.

The laser incidents are not only a threat to pilots but also to public safety. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office has been working tirelessly to combat such attacks. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with laser pointer misuse.

Galvan-Silvestre’s actions have put countless lives at risk, and now he must face the consequences. His guilty plea underscores the serious nature of the charge and the severe penalties for similar offenses in the future.

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