Golden Bay man fined after pointing laser at police helicopter

A 28-year-old man has been fined $1000 after he pointed a laser at a police helicopter.

Eddy Ikonen appeared in the Mandurah Magistrates Court on Tuesday where he pleaded guilty to one count of causing fear or alarm with a laser or light. 

The court heard Ikonen was arrested at a home on Korong Road on May 25 after shining a laser at the police helicopter, temporarily blinding the pilots and causing them to take evasive action.

A short time later police were sent to the area and located Ikonen standing outside of his Golden Bay property. 

Police seized a laser pointer, previously purchased to be used as a pet toy. 

Ikonen's lawyer said her client didn't think the laser would stretch that far and he was remorseful for his actions 

She requested a fine or a suspended fine which Magistrate Leanne Atkins immediately denied. 

The Golden Bay man received a $1000 fine including $248.70 in court costs.

The two laser pointers which were confiscated from him were ordered by the magistrate to be destroyed.

His spent conviction order was denied.  

This offence carries a maximum fine of $36,000 and/ or a term of imprisonment for up to seven years.