Police: Florida Man in Custody for Aiming Lasers at Passenger Aircraft at International Airport

DEBARYLIFE – A Jet Blue pilot recently witnessed the blinding rays of a laser, leading authorities to discover the hobby of a Florida guy who reportedly points lasers straight at approaching planes.

Douglas Sollenberger, 47, is accused of pointing lasers at more than 40 arriving aircraft at Tampa International Airport since January 1, according to a press release from the Tampa Police Department.

Authorities claimed that there was a major risk to the pilots and passengers from the lasers.

A pilot with Jet Blue acknowledged on Thursday that, while attempting to land at the airport in Tampa, Florida, he was struck by a laser beam that was so bright it blinded him.

Related To – There Is An Unexpected Arrest, Nurse Taken Into Custody by Police at Hospital

The pilot was able to land safely, according to the authorities, despite having eyesight problems.

Police tracked down Sollenberger and monitored the suspect’s residence while they were conducting their investigation.

Two lasers, including the one they think was used on the Jet Blue aircraft, were discovered inside Sollenberger’s residence on Thursday after investigators executed a search order.

This “may have resulted in a tragic accident,” according to Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw.

“These laser strikes are not only illegal but also incredibly reckless behavior that could have resulted in a tragic accident,” added Bercaw. “We are grateful for the tireless efforts of our officers and the FBI in bringing this case to a close.”

Related To – Baraboo Resident in Custody Following Sauk County Drug Task Force Search

Law enforcement received praise from TPA Executive Vice President of Operations John Tiliacos for their “diligent work.”

“Every precaution is taken to ensure flight safety at Tampa International Airport, and we rely on the community’s support in these endeavors,” stated John Tiliacos, executive vice president of operations at TPA.

We express our gratitude to our close partners, the TPD and FBI, for their hard work in ensuring the safety of our crews, passengers, and aircraft. Never aim a laser at a moving airplane.

Sollenberger was brought to the Orient Road Jail after being accused of abusing a laser lighting apparatus.