Federal Charges for Laser Strikes on Aircraft Legal and Safety Impacts

Federal Charges for Laser Strikes on Aircraft: Legal, Safety, and Protest Implications

In June 2025, a 21-year-old man named Dominic Rios was federally charged for allegedly pointing a green laser at a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) helicopter during a protest in downtown Los Angeles. The laser illuminated the cockpit three times, prompting the pilot to alter the helicopter’s altitude to avoid further strikes. Rios was arrested weeks later after being identified by the helicopter crew and found in possession of the laser pointer.

This incident is not isolated. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), laser strikes on aircraft remain a persistent and growing threat. In 2024 alone, there were 12,840 reported laser incidents in the United States, with California leading the count. These events pose significant safety risks to pilots and passengers and have become increasingly common during periods of civil unrest. The legal and societal implications of such acts are far-reaching and demand a closer look.

This article explores the legal framework governing laser strikes, details the Rios case, examines national trends, and considers both the safety implications and broader societal context. With input from aviation safety experts and legal authorities, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and what can be done to address it.

Legal Framework and Federal Statutes

Federal Statutes and Penalties

Under Title 18 of the United States Code, Section 39A, it is a federal crime to knowingly aim a laser pointer at an aircraft or its flight path. The law defines a laser pointer as any device designed to emit a beam of light for use as a pointer or highlighter. Violators can face up to five years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000. In addition to criminal penalties, the FAA may impose civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation and $30,800 for multiple offenses.

This statute was enacted to address the growing concern over the use of lasers against aircraft, particularly given the increased availability of high-powered devices. The law is enforced in coordination with local and federal agencies, including the FBI and FAA, especially in cases involving repeat offenders or incidents during public events.

Importantly, state and local jurisdictions may have their own laws that complement federal statutes. These can include additional penalties or restrictions on the sale and possession of high-powered laser devices, enhancing the overall legal framework designed to deter such behavior.

“Laser strikes on aircraft are treated as federal crimes due to their potential to cause catastrophic accidents during flight operations.”, FAA

Jurisdictional Coordination

When laser strikes occur, especially during high-profile events like protests, jurisdictional coordination becomes crucial. In the case of Dominic Rios, the LAPD worked closely with the FBI to investigate the incident. The helicopter crew identified Rios, and LAPD ground officers arrested him shortly thereafter. The federal complaint was then filed by the FBI, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense.

Another similar case occurred just days later. Antonio DeLaRosa was charged for allegedly pointing a green laser at an LAPD helicopter during a protest in San Pedro. These cases highlight a pattern of laser use during protests and underscore the need for coordinated responses among local, state, and federal authorities.

Such coordination ensures that offenders are held accountable under the most appropriate legal framework and that investigations are thorough and effective. It also allows for the sharing of resources and expertise, which is essential in complex cases involving multiple jurisdictions and public safety concerns.

The Dominic Rios Case: A Detailed Analysis

Event Chronology and Evidence

The incident involving Dominic Rios occurred on June 10, 2025, during a protest in downtown Los Angeles. An LAPD helicopter flying at approximately 950 feet was hit three times by a green laser, which illuminated the cockpit and temporarily impaired the crew’s vision. The pilot was forced to change altitude to avoid further strikes.

The helicopter crew identified the source of the laser, and LAPD officers on the ground apprehended Rios. A green laser pointer was found in his pocket, and he reportedly admitted to using it. The FBI conducted further testing, confirming that the laser matched the wavelength of the one used during the incident.

Rios now faces a federal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 39A. If convicted, he could serve up to five years in prison. The case is part of a broader trend of laser strikes during periods of civil unrest, raising questions about intent, public safety, and legal accountability.

Operational and Safety Impacts

The immediate consequence of the laser strike was a change in flight altitude, which affected the helicopter’s surveillance capabilities. Such disruptions are not just operationally inconvenient, they pose real safety risks to the crew and the public below.

Laser strikes can cause temporary blindness, disorientation, and even permanent eye damage. These effects are especially dangerous during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing. Since 2010, there have been 328 reported injuries to pilots due to laser exposure.

In this context, the Rios case illustrates how even a brief act can have significant consequences. It also emphasizes the importance of public education and legal deterrents to prevent similar incidents in the future.

National Trends and Contributing Factors

Statistical Overview

The FAA began tracking laser strikes in 2010, and the numbers have steadily increased. In 2024, there were 12,840 reported incidents, a slight decrease from the 13,304 reported in 2023. Despite the dip, the numbers remain high, indicating that the problem is far from resolved.

California consistently reports the highest number of laser strikes, with 1,489 in 2024 alone. Other states with high incident rates include Florida and Texas. The FAA attributes the rise in part to the availability of inexpensive, high-powered lasers, many of which are sold online for as little as $20.

Green lasers are particularly problematic because they are more visible to the human eye than red lasers. This makes them more effective, and more dangerous, when aimed at aircraft. The combination of affordability, visibility, and lack of awareness contributes to the ongoing issue.

Protests and Civil Unrest

Laser strikes often spike during periods of civil unrest. In June 2025, multiple incidents were reported during protests in Los Angeles, including the cases involving Rios and DeLaRosa. These events suggest that lasers are sometimes used deliberately to disrupt law enforcement operations.

During protests, helicopters are commonly used for aerial surveillance, making them targets for individuals looking to interfere with police activities. The use of lasers in these contexts raises additional concerns about intent and the potential for escalation.

Law enforcement agencies are adapting by deploying additional aircraft, equipping helicopters with laser detection systems, and using drones to identify offenders. However, these measures require significant resources and coordination.

Aviation Safety and Expert Recommendations

Mitigation Strategies for Pilots

Pilots are trained to respond to laser strikes by averting their eyes, increasing cockpit lighting to reduce pupil dilation, and using physical barriers to block the beam. These strategies can mitigate some of the immediate effects, but they are not foolproof.

The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) recommends that all pilots undergo laser strike response training. They also advocate for the installation of anti-laser coatings on cockpit windows, although cost remains a barrier for widespread adoption.

According to ALPA, 67% of laser strikes occur during takeoff or landing, times when pilots are most vulnerable. The organization continues to push for regulatory changes and increased public awareness to reduce the frequency of these incidents.

“Lasers transform routine flights into emergencies. Prosecution must be paired with prevention, public education is as vital as penalties.”, Captain Joe DePete, ALPA President

Policy and Public Awareness

Experts agree that legal penalties alone are not enough to deter laser strikes. Public awareness campaigns, such as those run by the FAA, are essential. These campaigns use social media, airport signage, and educational videos to inform the public about the dangers and penalties associated with laser strikes.

Some experts have called for stricter regulations on the sale of high-powered lasers. In Canada, for example, lasers above a certain power threshold require a permit. Similar measures in the U.S. could help reduce the number of incidents.

Technology also plays a role. Systems like LaserTrac can detect the origin of a laser beam in real-time, allowing for faster law enforcement response. These tools are still in development but show promise in addressing the issue more proactively.

Conclusion

The case of Dominic Rios highlights a growing threat to aviation safety. With over 12,000 incidents reported annually, laser strikes are a serious issue that demands urgent attention. The legal framework is in place, but enforcement, public education, and technological innovation must work in tandem to address the problem effectively.

As protests and civil unrest continue to be part of the societal landscape, the misuse of laser pointers will likely remain a concern. By understanding the risks, improving coordination among agencies, and educating the public, we can work toward a safer airspace for everyone.

FAQ

What is the penalty for pointing a laser at an aircraft?
Under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 39A), offenders can face up to five years in prison and fines up to $250,000. The FAA may also impose civil penalties.

Why are green lasers more dangerous than red lasers?
Green lasers are more visible to the human eye and can cause greater visual disruption, especially at night or during low-light conditions.

How many laser strikes were reported in 2024?
The FAA reported 12,840 laser strikes on aircraft in the United States in 2024, with California leading the count at 1,489 incidents.

Sources: CBS News Los Angeles, Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Code Title 18 § 39A, Air Line Pilots Association