An Auckland man who shone a laser into the cockpits of an Air New Zealand plane and police helicopter has avoided jail time and a hefty fine.
Jesse James Halpin appeared in the North Shore District Court this morning, where he was sentenced to supervision and community work.
The 27-year-old shone a green laser at both aircraft from North Head Reserve in April this year.
He was today convicted on one charge of causing an aircraft to be operated in a manner causing unnecessary danger.
This charge carries a maximum penalty of one year's imprisonment or a $10,000 fine.
The Glenfield man was also convicted and discharged on one count of procuring/possessing cannabis.
He will serve 12 months' supervision and undertake 100 hours of community work, for the Civil Aviation Act breach.
