23 Jun Careful Where You Point That! Laser Pointers Can Land You a Criminal Record
Arizona has quite a few interesting laws—in fact, there’s even one about laser pointers. Have you ever heard that it’s illegal to point a laser at someone? This isn’t exactly true, but it depends who you point it at.
Laser pointers are perfectly legal as long as you use them appropriately. Feel free to use them for noting interesting points in your next presentation, playing with your cat, or annoying your siblings. Just keep the beam of light away from police officers and occupied aircraft, otherwise you might be facing a felony.
Aiming a Laser Pointer at Law Enforcement or an Aircraft Is a Crime!
The Arizona state penal code says that intentionally directing the beam of light from a laser pointer at a law enforcement officer or an occupied aircraft is a felony. If it was done recklessly, then you can be charged with a misdemeanor.
But why?
It was made illegal for several reasons, most of which have to do with the safety of law enforcement officers, pilots, and the people they protect.
Laser pointers are dangerous because they:
- Can cause temporary or even permanent retinal damage.
- Can be distracting. If law enforcement is distracted on the job, it may be dangerous for the public and other officers. Distracting a pilot can cause a temporary inability to fly, which puts the pilot, their crew, and their passengers at risk.
- Sometimes the beam looks like it is attached to a firearm, leading people to think that their lives are in danger.
What Are the Consequences of Shining a Laser Pointer?
The consequences of intentionally aiming a laser pointer at police or aircraft are felony charges. The class of felony will depend on the circumstances of the crime.
For example:
- If the act of aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft was intentional, but there was no crash and the pilot was in control of the aircraft; it is a class 6 felony. Sentences range from 3 months to over 5 years in prison.
- If the beam is aimed at a law enforcement officer in the line of duty, it is a class 5 felony. Sentences range from 6 months to over 7 years in prison.
- If the laser beam renders a pilot unable to operate an aircraft for any length of time, it is a class 3 felony. Sentences range from 2 years to over 25 years in prison.
- If the act results in a crash or forces the emergency landing of an aircraft, it is a class 2 felony. Sentences range from 3 years to over 35 years in prison.
To Fight Felony Charges, You Need a Strong Attorney
A felony conviction means more than losing a chunk of your life to prison. It also means losing certain civil rights, like the right to vote, own a firearm, or receive public assistance. A criminal record can also make it hard to find employment or housing. This is why fighting a felony charge is so important, and why you need to hire a competent criminal attorney.
The certified defense attorneys at Coolidge Law Firm can help you fight your legal battle and win. Your case will be handled personally, and we will always fight for the best outcome.
Don’t leave your future to chance—contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/22/25). Photo by Rapha Wilde on Unsplash.