Laser pointers have proven useful in a number of fields, including science, education, stargazing, and the military. They are also popular gadgets for technology enthusiasts. Owning a laser pointer can be fun and interesting, but you should be aware of the various laws that surround these devices. If you are not careful, you could face significant legal consequences for using your laser pointer in an improper manner.
If you are facing charges related to laser pointers in Mississippi, you should get in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Make no mistake, it is indeed possible to go to jail for laser-pointer-related crimes. With help from a committed defense lawyer, you can avoid needlessly excessive penalties and strive for the best possible outcome.
Shooting a Laser Beam at First Responders
You should know that in Mississippi, it is illegal to point your laser pointer at a first responder. This includes police officers, firefighters, and other emergency personnel. If you are convicted, you will face a misdemeanor and a fine of up to $1,000. Note that you can be found guilty of this crime whether you point your laser beam at these individuals “directly or indirectly.”
Mississippi Faces Five Years for Pointing Laser Pointer at Planes
To illustrate just how serious these charges can be, let’s look at a recent example. On December 16th of 2021, the Justice Department reported that a Mississippi man had pleaded guilty to pointing a laser pointer at planes taking off from Memphis airport. In 2021, the Federal Aviation Administration started to investigate reports of pilots “constantly” being struck by a green laser. The pilots had a vague idea of where the laser was coming from, but they could not pinpoint its location.
The FBI was called in, and they quickly learned that there had been over 50 laser strikes on planes in the general vicinity of the Memphis Airport. Various agencies started to pay more attention to the area, and in August of 2021, they caught the individual who had been pointing his laser pointer at planes. After being caught on tape via FBI surveillance, the individual admitted he had been intentionally striking planes with his laser pointer for months.
He faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. After he finishes his prison sentence, he will be eligible for supervised release. This is a clear example of how the FAA has been cracking down on laser pointer usage, creating much stricter laws with serious penalties.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you have been searching for a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney in Mississippi, look no further than Vic Carmody Jr., P.A. Over the years, we have helped a wide range of defendants in the Magnolia State with a number of different charges. Laser pointer laws might seem ridiculous to many, but the penalties are very real. If you are facing charges of any kind, book your consultation with us today. We will help you explore all your legal options.