VIDEO: Florida Man Arrested For Pointing Laser Light At Planes And Injuring A Pilot

A Florida man was arrested for allegedly pointing lasers lights at planes landing at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.

Charlie Chapman Jr., 41, was arrested after a video was taken of him pointing laser lights at planes four times. One of the pilots targeted by Chapman said that the light struck him directly in the eye, which caused blurred vision and temporary blindness.

An investigation into the situation was launched following reports from several pilots. When local authorities attempted to approach Chapman via helicopter, he reportedly aimed the laser at them as well. The suspect was reportedly sitting in a forklift when police found him. Sheriff officers were forced to use a taser on the man after he threatened them with a hammer when approached.

The laser pointer was found in Chapman’s right pants pocket as he was being arrested, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office confirmed. He was taken to jail after a brief stay in the hospital.

Chapman faces charges of aggravated assault on a police officer, pointing a laser at a pilot with and without injury, and resisting without violence.

“Pointing a laser at multiple aircraft didn't end well for Charlie Chapman Jr.,” the Sheriff’s Department said in a tweet. “He was arrested after pointing one at planes heading into SRQ Airport last night & then at our helicopter. He even tried throwing rocks at them.”