A West Auckland man has been charged after allegedly carrying out repeated laser strikes on a Police Eagle helicopter overnight.
Around 2.35am, the helicopter crew was attending jobs in the Glen Eden area when they were "repeatedly targeted" by a laser on the ground, Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen said.
Larsen said the laser shone directly into the cockpit of the helicopter, causing glare and flash blindness.
"Our onboard technology was able to clearly capture the alleged offender in the act, and instantly identified their address," he said.
Officers on the ground quickly arrived at the property and a 50-year-old man was taken into custody without incident.
He was charged with endangering transport.
"This offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment, recognising the terrible consequences that could occur after lasering any aircraft," Larsen said.
"The Police Eagle helicopter is out there working hard for the protection and safety of our community and this type of behaviour is unacceptable."
The man is due to appear in the Waitākere District Court on April 20.
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