Home
A comprehensive resource for safe and responsible laser use
Australia: 2-1/3 year sentence suspended over $10 laser pen drunkenly aimed at police helicopter
03 Jul 2015 -- Categories: Suspended sentence | Sex: Male
Adam Thomas Stewart, 30
Evanston, South Australia
In September 2013, Stewart repeatedly aimed a laser pen at a police helicopter.
The pilot had been using night vision goggles. He had "minor discomfort and sensitivity to light" for the next two days.
In court on July 2 2015, Stewart's lawyer said he was inebriated at the time and was playing with the laser which he had purchased online for less than AUS $10. The lawyer called Stewart's actions "inebriated stupidity."
The judge called Stewart's actions "drunken, dumb and dangerous."
Stewart pleaded guilty to prejudicing the safe operation of an aircraft and using a prohibited weapon — the laser.
He was sentenced to two years and four months, suspended in favor of a $500, two-year good behavior bond.
From ABC News
Evanston, South Australia
In September 2013, Stewart repeatedly aimed a laser pen at a police helicopter.
The pilot had been using night vision goggles. He had "minor discomfort and sensitivity to light" for the next two days.
In court on July 2 2015, Stewart's lawyer said he was inebriated at the time and was playing with the laser which he had purchased online for less than AUS $10. The lawyer called Stewart's actions "inebriated stupidity."
The judge called Stewart's actions "drunken, dumb and dangerous."
Stewart pleaded guilty to prejudicing the safe operation of an aircraft and using a prohibited weapon — the laser.
He was sentenced to two years and four months, suspended in favor of a $500, two-year good behavior bond.
From ABC News