FRESNO, Calif. — In a case that highlights the growing threat of laser strikes on aircraft, a Kern County man has been sentenced for shining a laser at a sheriff’s helicopter.
Richard Earl Francis, 51, of Bakersfield, was sentenced today to one month in prison in addition to the 71 days already served to be followed by 11 months home detention and 36 months of supervised release for knowingly aiming the beam of a laser pointer at a Kern County Sheriff’s Office helicopter, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on July 28, 2022, while the sheriff’s helicopter was patrolling the Oildale area of Bakersfield, Francis shined a bright green laser into the cockpit of the aircraft four times.
One of the airmen experienced temporary loss of vision in his right eye as a result of the laser. On Dec. 13, 2022, Francis pleaded guilty to knowingly aiming a laser at an aircraft.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported a surge in laser strikes in recent years, with 9,457 incidents reported in 2022 alone. In Bakersfield, there were, on average, three laser strike incidents reported every month. The FAA warns that lasers can cause visual interference and incapacitate pilots, posing a significant threat to aviation safety.
The case was the result of a joint investigation by the FBI, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the case.
The sentencing of Richard Earl Francis serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of laser strikes on aircraft. As the FAA continues to work towards preventing these incidents, it is crucial that individuals understand the risks and take responsibility for their actions.
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Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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