Columbus Man Arrested for Pointing Laser at Aircraft, Found in Possession of Meth

Federal Charges and Serious Jail Time Await

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COLUMBUS, Ind. – A Columbus man has landed himself in jail and is now facing federal charges after authorities discovered that he had been pointing a laser at aircraft. In addition to breaking federal law, the investigation also led to the discovery of methamphetamine in the man’s possession. As a result, he now faces thousands of dollars in fines and serious jail time on drug charges.

Laser Pointing Incidents at Columbus Municipal Airport

According to the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department, multiple reports were received over the past week regarding a green laser being aimed at aircraft at the Columbus Municipal Airport. Pointing a laser at an aircraft is considered a federal crime, leading to immediate law enforcement action.

Deputies Catch the Laser Pointing Offender

Deputies were initially unable to identify the person responsible for the laser incidents until one of them observed a green laser being pointed at his patrol car while driving down US 31, approximately 20 minutes away from the airport. The laser was coming from a black car, which was later found to be driven by Christopher Clem, a 49-year-old man from Columbus.

Discovery of Laser Devices and Illegal Substances

During their investigation, law enforcement officials found two green laser devices inside Clem’s vehicle, along with methamphetamine, crushed prescription pills, and a handgun.

Confession and Arrest

Christopher Clem allegedly confessed to deputies that he had been the one pointing lasers at aircraft. As a result, he was arrested on preliminary charges of pointing a laser at a public safety official, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, and dealing in a controlled substance.

Federal Investigation and Consequences

The Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department has notified the U.S. Air Marshals and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about the incident. The FAA states that individuals who point lasers at aircraft can face fines of up to $11,000 per violation, with the possibility of even higher fines for multiple violations. Perpetrators can also face criminal and civil prosecution.

Conclusion

The arrest of Christopher Clem serves as a reminder of the serious consequences individuals face when engaging in dangerous activities such as pointing lasers at aircraft. Not only is it a federal crime, but it can also lead to the discovery of other illegal substances and result in severe legal penalties. The investigation will now be taken over by federal authorities, and Clem will likely face additional charges and consequences.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on preliminary reports and may be subject to change as the investigation progresses.