The Richland Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking people to avoid pointing lasers at aircraft.
Officials say an air evacuation team was targeted by a laser while in flight over the Mangham area last week.
“This reckless act could have caused a catastrophic accident and endangered the lives of the flight crew and potential patients on board,” Sheriff Neal Harwell said.
He added this is not a harmless prank. According to Louisiana Revised Statute §14:336, it is unlawful to knowingly and intentionally aim a laser at an aircraft or its flight path. Violators can face arrest, prosecution, and even federal charges.
Laser interference with aircraft is dangerous and illegal.
“These acts will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated,” Harwell said. “We ask everyone to help us keep our skies safe for our emergency crews, pilots, and the people they serve.
