Deputies: Video caught Palmetto man pointing laser at Manatee Sheriff’s Office helicopter

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) - A man was arrested early Thursday morning after allegedly pointing a laser at a Manatee Sheriff’s Office helicopter.

Vladimir Altman, 22, faces charges for allegedly pointing the laser as a tactical flight officer and pilot were on routine patrol Wednesday night. When suddenly, they spotted someone shining a green laser at them.

The sheriff's office says the person pointed the laser into the cockpit multiple times, making it extremely hard for the officer and pilot to see at times.

They were able to determine the laser was coming from "The Palms at Rivera Dunes" apartment complex on Haben Boulevard.

They sent patrol units and Palmetto police officers to that complex, that’s when the suspect was identified. According to the sheriff’s office, Altman admitted to the crime, was arrested and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

He is facing charges for "Pointing laser at an aircraft/pilot while in flight.

Officials tell us Altman has bonded out of jail.

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