COLUMBUS, Ind. — Bartholomew County Sheriff deputies have made an arrest in a case about complaints involving an individual shining a green laser at aircraft in the area.’
Sheriff’s Department spokesman Sgt. Dane Duke said earlier attempts to locate the individual were unsuccessful until Saturday.
At approximately 10:38 p.m. Saturday, Deputy Dylan Prather was dispatched to the area of the Columbus Municipal Airport for yet again a report of someone pointing a laser at an aircraft. Prather was initially unsuccessful in locating the source. Approximately 20 minutes later while traveling on U.S. 31 near I-65, Prather observed a green laser emitting from a black passenger car, Duke said. At this time the laser was then pointed at Prather’s patrol car as he drove by the vehicle.
A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle and the driver was identified as Christopher Clem, 49, of 1055 Robert Drive – 1A, Columbus, Duke said. During the investigation two laser devices as well as methamphetamine and crushed prescription pills were found, Duke said. While speaking with Clem, he admitted to deputies to pointing the laser at
an aircraft as it flew overhead, Duke said.
Clem was transported to the Bartholomew County Jail where he remains on a 48 hour hold on the preliminary charges of: Pointing a laser at a public safety official, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance and dealing in a controlled substance. All charges were enhanced due to Clem being in possession of a handgun at the time of the incident, Duke said.
The United States Air Marshals and Federal Aviation Administration continue to investigate the incident at a federal level, Duke said.
