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Defendant Aimed Laser Pointer at Aircraft, Sentenced to 2.5 Years in Prison
MISSOULA – A Kalispell man was sentenced to two and one-half years in prison for pointing a laser pointer at an aircraft, putting the lives of pilots and ground safety at risk. U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announced the sentencing of Nolan Wayne Hamman, 32, for his role in shining a laser pointer at an aircraft in flight.
Hamman pleaded guilty in October 2024 to aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft, a serious offense that can have devastating consequences. According to court documents, Hamman engaged in this behavior over several months, pursuing planes because he believed they were tracking him. His actions continually endangered multiple pilots, including two juveniles, and the safety of those on the ground in the Kalispell area.
On November 25, 2023, a flight instructor operating a plane over Kalispell called 911 to report Hamman shining a laser pointer at her plane while she was flying with a minor student. Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded and located Hamman on the ground with the laser pointer. He admitted to shining the laser at the plane while it was in flight.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, Federal Aviation Administration, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office and Kalispell Police Department. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided over the case.
Hamman’s sentence includes three years of supervised release following his prison term. His actions highlight the importance of prioritizing aviation safety and taking swift action against those who put lives at risk. The sentencing serves as a warning to others who may engage in similar behavior.
As a community, it is essential to take pride in keeping our skies safe and taking swift action against those who pose a threat to our safety. We must remain vigilant in preventing such incidents from occurring and holding accountable those who engage in reckless behavior.
Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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