BUFFALO, N.Y. – Joseph L. Crapsi, a 29-year-old resident of Cheektowaga, NY, faces charges after being arrested for aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft. U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced the charges, which include a potential minimum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is managing the case, shared details from the criminal complaint. On March 1, 2024, at around 12:07 a.m., the pilot of a Delta Airlines flight nearing Buffalo Niagara International Airport reported a green laser being shone at the plane. The pilot noted that the laser appeared from a location approximately one mile south of the airport’s approach, persisting for 60 to 90 seconds.
Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Police, alongside Cheektowaga Police, responded to the incident. Their investigation led them to a Nagel Drive residence in Cheektowaga, where they discovered a laser pointer in Crapsi’s bedroom. Further investigation revealed a neighbor’s report of being blinded by a green laser through his kitchen window, which also pointed towards the sky multiple times.
Crapsi was subsequently arrested and, following his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer, was released under specific conditions pending further legal proceedings.