Photos capture Wrexham man's laser use towards helicopter

At his sentencing hearing this week Ian Davies, of Park Avenue, was told his actions in December last year could have had "catastrophic" consequences.

While trying to assist officers on the ground in the apprehension of offenders, a police helicopter pilot was forced to take evasive action when a green laser with "extreme brightness" was directed at the cockpit.

Image: CPS (Image: CPS)

READ MORE: Man jailed for 'very foolish decision' to shine lasers at police helicopter

Mold Crown Court heard this was followed by a red laser - then the colours alternated for around 20 minutes, causing a "severe distraction" for Capt. Jason Grime, as well as significantly increasing the workload of the helicopter crew.

It took place while the aircraft was over a heavily populated area of Wrexham.

The crew spots Davies' location, left, and the red laser. Images: CPS (Image: CPS)

The court was shown images, which have subsequently been released to the Leader by the Crown Prosecution Service, of just how severe that distraction had been on the night.

Judge Nicola Saffman told the 58-year-old defendant: "You were extremely reckless as to whether the beams would hit the helicopter, which they did.

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Image: CPS (Image: CPS)

"There was a dazzle which would have prevented the pilot from seeing his instruments and seeing where he was going.

"Your actions could have had tragic consequences."

Davies' defending barrister Philip Tully said his client - who "holds an important position in the aircraft industry" - had been "completely out of character, when he was at a very low ebb, under the influence of alcohol and clearly not thinking straight."

Despite the mitigation, and Davies' lack of previous convictions, Judge Saffman jailed him for six months given the seriousness of the offence and in order for the sentence to act as a deterrent to others.

Image: CPS (Image: CPS)