George Munoz Arrested for Discharging a Laser at Sheriff’s Helicopter During a “Street Takeover”
Origtinally published as a San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department Nixle post –
“On Thursday, January 6, 2022, at approximately 10:00 p.m., Sheriff’s Helicopter 40-KING-1, piloted by Deputy D. Negron and Tactical Flight Officer C. Korkotsakis, was on patrol over the city of San Bernardino.
While on patrol, the crew assisted the San Bernardino Police Department with multiple vehicles racing in the area of Orange Show Rd. and Lena Rd.
The crew located several vehicles racing, numerous bystanders and vehicles blocking the road, also known as a “street takeover”. While overhead, the crew relayed this information to responding units and was struck multiple times by a purple laser.
Using the helicopter’s forward looking infrared (FLIR), the crew was able to locate George Munoz on the ground pointing the laser at them. Munoz pointed the laser several times at the crew and then attempted to flee in a vehicle. The crew followed Munoz and guided ground units to him where he was detained by officers. During a search of the vehicle, officers located the laser Munoz used to point at the helicopter.
Munoz was arrested and transported to Central Detention Center for violation of PC247.5
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind the public that pointing any kind of laser at an aircraft, while in motion/flight, can seriously hinder the pilot’s ability to safely control the aircraft. It is a Felony and Federal Offense. ”
