Crime & Safety
Chicago, IL FBI Alert: Man Indicted in Police Helicopter Laser Case
A Chicago area federal indictment is drawing renewed attention to the dangers of pointing laser beams at aircraft after a man was accused of targeting a Chicago Police Department helicopter.
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-10T00:37:26.584Z
A Chicago area federal indictment is drawing renewed attention to the dangers of pointing laser beams at aircraft after a man was accused of targeting a Chicago Police Department helicopter.
According to the FBI's Chicago field office and a federal law enforcement announcement shared Thursday, October 9, Igancin Ramos has been indicted in federal court for allegedly aiming a laser pointer at a Chicago police helicopter.
Federal officials say laser strikes can temporarily blind or disorient pilots, creating potentially life threatening conditions for aircraft crews, passengers and people on the ground.
The FBI also warned that emergency helicopters face particularly serious risks because they frequently operate at lower altitudes while responding to emergencies or transporting patients.
Authorities say the Chicago metropolitan area has experienced a significant and dangerous increase in laser strike incidents over the past two years.
“The FBI has zero tolerance for anyone who is unlawfully using lasers and attempting to put lives at risk on the ground or in the sky,” said FBI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Ryan Whalen.
Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly also emphasized the danger, noting that authorities have previously made arrests involving aircraft targeted with laser pointers.
Under federal law, knowingly aiming a laser pointer beam at an aircraft can result in criminal penalties of up to five years in prison and fines reaching $250,000.
The Federal Aviation Administration may also impose civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation, according to the FBI's announcement.
The indictment represents an allegation, not a conviction. Ramos is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Anyone witnessing someone unlawfully directing a laser toward an aircraft is encouraged to contact the FBI at 1 800 CALL FBI 1 800 225 5324 or submit information through tips.fbi.gov. Anonymous tips are accepted.