Police reveal 'incredibly dangerous' moment helicopter dazzled with laser pen

David Warren, 41, was filmed shining a high-powered beam of green light at a hovering chopper from a widow - while officers complained of being "targeted"

A man has been put behind bars for shining a laser pen at a police helicopter while it was engaged in the critical task of searching for a missing person. The incident, involving 41 year old David Warren, was captured on video as he directed a potent green laser from a window at the aircraft, with officers reporting being "targeted".

Warren has been handed a 35-week prison sentence for the act, which also triggered a suspended sentence for a previous offence of threatening someone with a weapon. The drama unfolded in Warrington, Cheshire, when police were alerted at 1.30am on August 27 over concerns about a man's safety.

Ground inquiries by officers were complemented by aerial support from the National Police Air Service, which sent a helicopter to Latchford to aid in the search.

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However, just before 3.15am, the helicopter crew reported via police radio that a green laser was being shone at them from a residential window, warning: "We're being targeted by a laser and if it doesn't stop, we're going to have to pull off this job."

They added with urgency: "He needs arresting for it leaning out a window, consistently targeting us as well."

The source of the laser was swiftly traced back to Warren's residence. Despite initially refusing entry to the police, forced entry was made, and Warren was arrested.

During questioning, he confessed to the crime, explaining his intention was to use the laser to highlight the helicopter while filming it on his phone. Warren faced charges for directing a laser beam at an aircraft and entered a guilty plea. He received his sentence at Warrington Magistrates' Court on September 26.

Post-hearing, Sergeant Michael Hayes of Cheshire Constabulary remarked: "While the person the police helicopter was searching for during this incident was ultimately located, shining the laser beam it its direction was incredibly dangerous, and could have seriously hindered their efforts to locate someone in need of help."

"The sentence handed to Warren should serve as a reminder of how serious this offence is considered."

"I hope it also reminds people of the risks associated with lasers, which some people may think of as a harmless device. This is far from the case and can have very serious consequences."