Laser Pointers Threaten Skies | Seattle News

Seattle News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 26, 2026 · 1m

Laser pointers aimed at planes? It’s not sci-fi—it’s a real, dangerous epidemic in Washington, with hundreds of incidents yearly. Prosecutors can’t convict even confessed offenders because state law demands proof of “malicious intent,” a nearly impossible bar to meet. While federal law only requires knowing intent, the state’s strict standard leaves pilots vulnerable and justice elusive. King County prosecutors are pushing for legislative change to remove the “maliciously” requirement, hoping to finally hold people accountable before disaster strikes again. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on…