Philadelphia Man Charged with Interfering with an Aircraft
| U.S. Attorney’s Office September 21, 2011 |
Brian Lawhon was charged today by indictment with interfering with an aircraft, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger. The charge against Lawhon arises out of his involvement in an incident on July 27, 2011, during which Lawhon is alleged to have shined a laser into the cockpit of a Philadelphia Police Department helicopter during routine patrol, striking both pilots in the eyes.
Information Regarding the Defendant
Name: Brian Lawhon
Address: Philadelphia, PA
Year of Birth: 1988
Lawhon faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, three years’ supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
This case has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Philadelphia Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Salvatore L. Astolfi.