Man pointed laser at Nassau police helicopter, officials say

A Bayville man was arrested and charged Saturday after he allegedly aimed a laser pointer at a Nassau County police helicopter, authorities said.

The helicopter was canvassing the Jericho area Saturday night when police said 32-year-old Lance Lee directed a green laser pointer at the aircraft, interfering with the pilot’s ability to operate. Police determined the incident occurred at the Edgewood Motel on Jericho Turnpike where they arrested Lee without incident.

Lee was charged with first-degree directing a laser at an aircraft, second-degree reckless endangerment and second-degree obstructing government administration.

He was released on an appearance ticket and is expected to be arraigned at first District Court in Hempstead on Aug. 26.

By Vera Chinese

vera.chinese@newsday.com@VeraChinese

Vera Chinese joined Newsday in 2017 after working as an editor for the East End lifestyle publication northforker and a general assignment reporter for the New York Daily News.