A 27-year-old man from Gardena, Brian Gutierrez, was arrested for allegedly aiming a high-powered green laser at a Los Angeles Police Department helicopter during an investigation of a street takeover. The incident occurred in the early hours of February 8, as officers responded to a gathering of approximately 50 vehicles and pedestrians blocking the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Vermont Avenue around 12:25 a.m.
As the LAPD helicopter monitored the situation, Gutierrez reportedly directed the laser upward, prompting the pilot and tactical flight officer to take evasive action to avoid the potential hazards of the laser strikes while maintaining sight of the suspect. Following the incident, Gutierrez fled the scene and entered a nearby property on Berenado Avenue. LAPD Street Racing Task Force units quickly located him hiding in a detached structure on the property.
Authorities discovered a black cylindrical laser pointer in the front yard, which was identified as the device used against the helicopter. Gutierrez was subsequently arrested and positively identified by the tactical flight officer who had been operating the helicopter.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating, “While pointing a laser at a helicopter may seem harmless, the actions of this individual are both illegal and dangerous.” He highlighted the risk of blinding the pilot, which could jeopardize the safety of both the officers involved and the public.
Gutierrez now faces state charges for discharging a laser at an aircraft in motion, which carries potential penalties of up to three years in prison or a fine of $2,000. Additionally, he has been charged with two felony counts: assault with a deadly weapon, which could result in a maximum of four years in prison and a $10,000 fine, as well as discharging the laser.
The U.S. attorney’s office is also considering federal charges against Gutierrez under a statute that criminalizes aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft. This federal offense could lead to a fine or up to five years in prison.
The swift response from the LAPD’s Street Racing Task Force and Air Support Division played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the officers and the public, as they worked to apprehend Gutierrez and mitigate the dangers posed by his actions.