Shreveport Woman Federally Indicted for Aiming Laser at Aircraft

In Shreveport, Louisiana, a woman has been federally indicted after being arrested last year for aiming a laser pointer at multiple aircraft, posing serious risks to flight safety. April Poitras, 45, has been charged with two counts of directing a laser pointer at an aircraft, an offense under federal law, according to federal court documents released Wednesday Mar. 27.

The incident, which occurred in August of the previous year, involved Poitras allegedly targeting an aircraft’s flight path with a laser beam, specifically aiming at a Cessna 172L and an Airbus H125. This dangerous act not only endangers pilots but all passengers aboard.

If found guilty, Poitras could face a penalty of up to 5 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and fines reaching $250,000 for each count.

The investigation was conducted collaboratively by the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, alongside the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Blanchard Police Department, and Baltimore Police Department, highlighting the seriousness with which authorities are treating such violations against aviation safety.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ktalnews.com