A Las Vegas resident has admitted to pointing a green laser at a police helicopter, disrupting its operation during an active call. According to court records and statements made in court, Sergio Octavio Sanchez aimed the laser pointer at a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter on January 2, 2025. The incident occurred while the helicopter was providing aerial support for officers on the ground, causing it to divert from its assignment and change its flight path.
Authorities note that shining lasers at aircraft is a significant safety concern. Laser beams can disorient pilots or cause temporary blindness, which may lead to midair collisions or other incidents. In some cases, exposure can result in permanent vision damage. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that pilots experienced nearly 11,000 laser strikes in 2025.
Sanchez faces up to five years in prison. Sentencing is set for May 12, 2026. The final sentence will be determined by a federal judge after reviewing U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other legal factors.
The FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings is prosecuting the case.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI’s Las Vegas Division announced the plea.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious laser activity by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or visiting tips.fbi.gov.
