On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Aircraft Operations Division (AOD) was assisting the San Angelo Police Department with a local operation. During surveillance, the aircraft was targeted by a green laser light. The aircrew shielded their eyes and began efforts to locate the individual responsible for shining the laser at the helicopter. The suspect was quickly identified and apprehended by Texas Highway Patrol Troopers.
Emilio Partida, 45, of San Angelo, Texas, was arrested and transported to the Tom Green County Jail, where he was booked for Illuminating an Aircraft with a Laser Pointer Impairing Operator, a Class A misdemeanor.
In Texas, pointing a laser at an aircraft can result in misdemeanor charges. If the beam impairs the pilot’s ability to operate the aircraft, the offense may be elevated to a Class A misdemeanor. Such violations can also carry federal penalties, including substantial fines.
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