Jacob Samuel Winkler is accused of aiming a laser at the aircraft, a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
According to court documents, Secret Service agent Diego Santiago was patrolling near the White House on 20/9 to secure the flight path for Marine One carrying President Donald Trump when he noticed Winkler shirtless, talking loudly to himself.
When the agent shone his flashlight for a closer look, Winkler pointed a laser at his face, briefly disorienting him. The suspect then directed the laser at the Marine One helicopter, which had just departed the White House at low altitude.
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US President Donald Trump leaves Marine One at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, on 22/9. Photo: AFP |
US President Donald Trump leaves Marine One at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, on 22/9. Photo: AFP
The court documents note this action could temporarily blind the pilot, cause disorientation, and increase the risk of a collision. Winkler was immediately handcuffed, repeatedly saying, "I should apologize to Donald Trump. I'm sorry, Donald Trump," claiming he didn't know it was illegal to shine a laser at Marine One.
Authorities confiscated the laser pointer and a knife approximately 7.6 cm long. "He stated that he pointed the laser at several things, including stop signs," the indictment said.
"Marine One" is the official designation used by the US Marine Corps for any helicopter carrying the US president to avoid confusion with other aircraft. The president typically uses helicopters for short or medium-distance travel when Air Force One or the presidential motorcade are not feasible.
Duc Trung (Fox News, AP)
