Salisbury man, 58, arrested after allegedly shining high-powered- torch at an aircraft

A Salisbury man has been arrested after he was caught by police allegedly compromising the safety of an aircraft on Friday night.

A man has been allegedly caught red-handed by police after reports a person deliberately hindered a pilot in flight by shining a high-powered torch at an aircraft.

On Friday at 7.30pm, a pilot reported that he spotted a bright light intentionally pointed at his aircraft causing issues with visibility.

Northern District patrols arrived at a property on Copas Dr at Salisbury where they caught a man in his front yard – allegedly shining the light in the direction of the plane.

Police also searched his property and discovered a high-powered torch and a taser.

The 58-year-old man was arrested and has been charged with prejudicing the safe operation of an aircraft and possessing a dangerous article.

He has been bailed to appear at the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on 16 May.