Citrus Heights man arrested after allegedly aiming laser at CHP helicopter – Citrus Heights Sentinel

By Mike Hazlip—
Last weekend, Citrus Heights police officers assisted the California Highway Patrol in arresting a suspect who allegedly aimed a laser at a police helicopter.

A video from a CHP helicopter released by the California Highway Patrol Valley Division Air Operations on August 20 appears to show a green laser flashing from a vehicle parked on a side street near Interstate 80. Citrus Heights Police Sergeant Kane Kissam confirmed that the adult male suspect was arrested on Verner Avenue near Goldenwood Circle after the Highway Patrol's Air 21 unit identified the location.

Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the suspect, Kissam said.

A social media statement from the agency said the suspect was aiming the laser at passing aircraft. Citrus Heights police assisted the agency in making the arrest, the release said. The suspect faces felony charges.

“We remind the public that striking an aircraft with a laser is extremely dangerous because it can temporarily blind or disorient pilots, potentially leading to loss of control during critical phases of flight,” the agency said. “This act is illegal and carries severe penalties due to the significant risks it poses to flight safety.”