Jason M. Frierson U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada
A Las Vegas resident, Sergio Octavio Sanchez, has pleaded guilty to pointing a green laser at a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter. The incident occurred on January 2, 2025, while the helicopter was providing aerial support for officers responding to a call.
Court documents show that Sanchez aimed the laser pointer several times at the police helicopter. As a result of being struck by the laser beam, the helicopter had to change its assignment and flight path.
Authorities highlight that directing lasers at aircraft can be dangerous. Laser beams may cause disorientation or temporary blindness in pilots and could lead to midair collisions or other incidents. In some cases, exposure to lasers can result in permanent vision problems or blindness. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), pilots reported nearly 11,000 laser strikes in 2025.
Sanchez faces up to five years in prison for this offense. His sentencing is set for May 12, 2026. A federal judge will decide on his sentence after reviewing U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings.
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 agreement.
Officials encourage anyone who sees suspicious use of lasers aimed at aircraft to report it by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or visiting tips.fbi.gov.
