A recent incident involving an individual shining a laser at a Michigan State Police helicopter has sparked a reminder of the illegality and dangers of such actions. According to ClickOnDetroit, aiming a laser pointer at aircraft is a federal offense since 2012, with hefty penalties including up to $11,000 per violation.

The WWJ Newsradio reported that the suspect was located and arrested in Grosse Pointe Park after allegedly striking the patrol helicopter three times with laser light. These actions can dangerously impair a pilot's vision, leading to potential disorientation or flashblindness. The FBI has stated that such a crime carries a maximum of 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) can impose a civil penalty of up to $11,000 for each violation of shining lasers on aircraft. The hazard, as stated by Michigan State Police, is that the cockpit can become flooded with bright light that may cause temporary blindness for pilots, putting everyone's safety at risk. In emergencies, this could result in life-or-death situations if the aircraft needs to divert from its mission.

Meanwhile, in a similar vein as federal law, Michigan's legal measures are strict towards this offense. The Detroit News explains that aiming a laser beam at a moving train or flying aircraft is a felony, punishable by up to five years' incarceration or a $10,000 fine. State police have taken to social media to warn against such behavior, saying, "Don't find out the hard way like this person did."

Officials have not yet released the name or details surrounding the suspect involved in this most recent incident. The public is urged to remember the serious consequences of what may seem like a harmless prank but is in reality a noted federal and state crime.