Kansas man charged in laser, helicopter shooting case

The charge

A Kansas man has been charged in connection with allegations that he aimed a laser and shot at a Kansas Highway Patrol helicopter.

The case involves the Kansas Highway Patrol, the state law-enforcement agency whose helicopter was targeted. The charge concerns two alleged actions: directing a laser at the aircraft and shooting at it.

What the case means

A criminal charge is an accusation filed in court. It is not a final determination that the person committed the alleged acts. The case will move through the court process, where the allegations can be addressed.

What comes next

The court process will determine how the case proceeds. Future filings or hearings may identify the specific charges, the location and date of the alleged conduct, and other details about the case.

The allegations involve an aircraft operated by the Kansas Highway Patrol. Targeting a law-enforcement helicopter with a laser or gunfire can create risks for the people aboard and affect flight operations.