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Drone Interferes With LAPD Helicopter in Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD (CBSLA.com) — A man was detained on Friday for flying his drone too close to a Los Angeles Police Department helicopter in Hollywood.

Just before midnight on Thursday, officers were sent to a parking lot located on Sunset Boulevard near Gower Street for report of a man flying a drone dangerously close to an airship within police perimeter, according to LAPD officers.

Upon their arrival, authorities located the man the parking lot of Rite Aid. He was detained for interfering with the LAPD by use of a drone.

A preliminary investigation revealed the police helicopter was being used to help coordinate with an investigation in the area as officers searched for a different suspect.

According to police, the airship flew lower than usual during the search, which is where they encountered the drone.

"Our pilot looked up and saw two red lights coming at him," said Capt. Al Lopez. "The pilot had to stress the machine to lower it. It placed our pilot in immediate danger."

The suspect was reportedly flying the drone to capture video of the police investigation.

Luckily, the drone did not come into contact with the helicopter and the investigation was completed.

The suspect was released from custody, however, police said they are still reviewing the case and believe he may a felony charge of assault with a deadly weapon on an officer.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in Sacramento are now looking at a number of bills that involve flying drones into emergency airspace.

The laws could allow first responders to damage or disable drones, and fines or jail time could be imposed to offenders.

No bills have been passed at this time.

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