Gwinnett Man Points Laser At Helicopter, Charged With Obstruction

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — A Lilburn man was arrested Monday after pointing a laser at a police helicopter searching for a stolen pickup truck, according to authorities.

Fredy Contreras, 47, was charged with obstructing law enforcement and pointing a laser at an aircraft after Gwinnett police confronted him at his home on Misty View Trail Monday night.

According to the police report, Contreras initially denied pointing the green laser at the helicopter, but later admitted doing it “for fun” after officers told him the incident was on video.

Contreras was released from the Gwinnett County Jail Tuesday on $1,850 bond.

The case will also be referred to the Federal Aviation Administration, to be presented to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for possible federal prosecution.

“Pointing a laser at an aircraft is extremely dangerous as it can hinder the pilot’s ability to handle the aircraft and interfere with the equipment on board,” said Gwinnett County Police spokesperson Cpl. Collin Flynn in a statement Tuesday. “The police department wants the general public to know that this is unlawful.”