Man Charged After Lasering Police Helicopter
- A 50-year-old man from West Auckland has been charged after allegedly targeting a Police Eagle helicopter with a laser on the night of April 14, 2026.
- The incident occurred at approximately 2.35am in the Glen Eden area while the helicopter crew was attending various jobs.
- Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen, the Officer in Charge of the Air Support Unit, stated that the laser beam shone directly into the helicopter's cockpit.
A 50-year-old man from West Auckland has been charged after allegedly targeting a Police Eagle helicopter with a laser on the night of April 14, 2026.
The incident occurred at approximately 2.35am in the Glen Eden area while the helicopter crew was attending various jobs. According to police, the crew was repeatedly targeted by a laser emanating from the ground.
Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen, the Officer in Charge of the Air Support Unit, stated that the laser beam shone directly into the helicopter’s cockpit. This action subjected the crew to glare and flash blindness.
Investigation and Arrest
Police utilized onboard technology to capture the alleged offender during the act and instantly identify the individual’s address. Following this identification, ground units arrived at the location and took the 50-year-old man into custody without incident.
The man has been charged with endangering transport. Senior Sergeant Larsen noted that this specific offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment, a reflection of the potential consequences associated with lasering any aircraft.
Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen
The Police Eagle helicopter is out there working hard for the protection and safety of our community and this type of behaviour is unacceptable.
Court Proceedings
The accused man is scheduled to appear in the Waitākere District Court on April 20, 2026.
New Zealand Police have stated they are limited in providing further comment as the matter is now before the court.