07/27/2026
NPSO: Sheriff's Office Reminds Public That Pointing Lasers at Aircraft Is a Crime
Natchitoches Parish – The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office is reminding residents that intentionally pointing a laser at an aircraft is not only extremely dangerous, but also a violation of Louisiana law and federal law that can result in significant fines, imprisonment, and criminal prosecution.
On Sunday morning, July 26, 2026, at approximately 1:59 a.m., Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the 4200 block of La. Hwy. 490 near DC Walker Road and the Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #1 Fire Station in Marco after an aircraft flying overhead reported someone pointing a green laser from the ground into the aircraft.
This can be extremely dangerous to the pilot’s vision and the safe operation of the aircraft.
Deputies responded to the area but were unable to locate anyone.
Even a handheld laser pointer can temporarily blind or distract a pilot during critical phases of flight, including takeoff and landing. A momentary flash can impair a pilot's vision, creating a serious safety risk for everyone on board and for people on the ground.
Under Louisiana Revised Statute 14:336 (Unlawful Aiming of a Laser at an Aircraft), it is illegal to intentionally project a laser at an aircraft or into its flight path. A first conviction carries a penalty of one to five years imprisonment, with or without hard labor, and a $2,000 fine. A second or subsequent conviction is punishable by two to ten years imprisonment, with or without hard labor, and a $4,000 fine.
Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigate laser strikes involving aircraft. Individuals found responsible may also face substantial federal civil penalties and criminal charges.
If you observe someone intentionally shining a laser at an aircraft, do not confront the individual. Instead, report the incident immediately by:
Calling 911 if the incident is actively occurring.
Contacting the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office or your local law enforcement agency.
Reporting the incident to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting a tip at tips.fbi.gov.
Reporting the incident to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at [email protected].
When making a report, be prepared to provide:
The date and time of the incident.
The exact location where the laser originated, if known.
The color of the laser beam.
A description of the person or vehicle involved.
The direction the laser was pointed and any other relevant observations.
Sheriff Stuart Wright encourages residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity involving lasers directed at aircraft.
"The intentional misuse of laser pointers places pilots, passengers, and the public at risk," said Sheriff Stuart Wright. "Pointing a laser at an aircraft is not a prank—it is a serious criminal offense under both Louisiana and federal law. We ask everyone to use these devices responsibly and immediately report anyone attempting to interfere with the safe operation of an aircraft."
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office appreciates the public's cooperation in helping protect the safety of our aviation community and reminds everyone that if you see suspicious activity, report it immediately.
The FAA-Baton Rouge has been notified.
