Teen Arrested for Pointing Laser at Chopper

A local teenager has been arrested for pointing a laser at a sheriff's helicopter, according to investigators.

The 14-year-old Vista boy was booked for investigation of pointing a laser at an aircraft, a felony, Sheriff's Sgt. Nelson Prosper said. He was then released to his parents.

Investigators say the sheriff's helicopter was on patrol Tuesday night when the laser was pointed at the aircraft. The teen was found at an apartment complex after the helicopter crew radioed for help.

Laser pointers have been known to cause temporary blindness and eye damage, but it wasn't known if the pilot was injured.

Prosper says laser pointers are also dangerous because it isn't known if it's a weapons aiming device.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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