Laser pointers becoming problem for pilots nationwide

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Laser pointers are becoming a problem nationwide for pilots who could become disoriented when struck by the bright beam.

A Los Angeles County sheriff's helicopter took part in a training exercise when someone pointed a laser straight into the cockpit Wednesday.

There have been about two dozen similar incidents in the last few years, according to LASD officials.

"It occurs all the time. It's been occurring more and more frequently throughout the last five years. We're seeing it more and more often," LASD Sgt. Morrie Zager said.

In the most recent incident, helicopter crews directed deputies on the ground to a home in Agoura Hills where two people were arrested.

A few days before, another similar incident happened in Riverside and investigators found a home where the laser beam had come from, but the suspects fled the scene.

Pointing a laser into a cockpit can be dangerous, as the beam can travel more than one mile and the sudden bright light can disorient the pilot.

Last year, the Federal Aviation Administration reported nearly 4,000 laser strikes nationwide. Officials said the worst case scenario could be a disaster for people on the ground.

"If the pilot were to become incapacitated, this aircraft is going down. This is almost a 5,000-pound machine coming out of the sky like a rocket," Zager said.

The two people arrested could face federal charges, which includes a fine up to $250,000 and up to 20 years in prison.