Lives put at risk as Army helicopter dazzled by laser over Ripon (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Lives put at risk as Army helicopter dazzled by laser over Ripon

3:58pm Thursday 11th October 2012 in News By Matt Westcott

POLICE are hunting the person who shone a laser at an Army helicopter, putting the lives of the crew at risk.

It happened at around 9.50pm on Tuesday, as a Lynx helicopter, based with the Army Air Corp at Dishforth, flew over Ripon. It is believed that the person using the high powered laser was in the Victoria Grove junction with All Hallow Gate area of the city.

Officers, assisted by the helicopter crew, made a search of the area, but were unable to locate the person.

Article 222 of the Air Navigation Order 2009 states that it is a criminal offence to use a light in such a way that will dazzle or distract a pilot of an aircraft.

Temporary Chief Inspector Sarah Sanderson, of Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Command, said: “I cannot condemn this act of utter stupidity strongly enough. As well as causing the flight crew considerable difficulty and putting their lives at risk, the consequences had the helicopter crashed are unthinkable.

“I urge anyone who can help to identify those responsible for this reckless act to come forward and contact the police or Crimestoppers immediately.”

Anyone who can help with this investigation is asked to contact Ripon police on 101, press option 2 and ask for Dave Furlong. Alternatively information can be emailed to david.furlong@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk .

Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting reference number 12120170312.