Denver Man Charged With Aiming Laser Pointer At Denver Police Department Helicopter During Protest On November 4

DENVER – United States Attorney Jason R. Dunn today announced that Logan Scott Debyle of Denver has been charged with aiming a laser pointer at a Denver Police Department (DPD) helicopter.  According to the affidavit in support of the complaint, Debyle allegedly used a green laser pointer to illuminate the cockpit of a DPD helicopter called “Air 1” as the helicopter observed civil unrest during the evening of November 4, 2020.  The flight crew of Air 1 viewed two men associated with the laser.  The men were then detained by DPD ground officers.

Debyle made his initial appearance before the United States District Court for the District of Colorado today.  Debyle is charged with violating 18 U.S.C. § 39A.  If convicted, he faces a sentence of not more than five years imprisonment and a fine of not more than $250,000.  The charge contained in the complaint is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Denver Field Office and the Denver Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney David Tonini is handling the prosecution on behalf of the United States.  The case number is 20-mj-180.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.