The operation included five (5) additional UH-60 Blackhawks and one (1) C-12 aircraft, all of which were in-flight in close proximity. While approaching the airport, pilots and crew were temporarily blinded several times by a strong light emanating from the ground and aimed at the nose of the aircraft. (Crew members were flying on night vision goggles which automatically shut down when exposed to too much light.)  

Further investigation revealed that, on October 6, 2009, Clausen aimed a Brinkmann Q-Beam, three million candle power flood light at the miliary aircraft in an effort to deter it from flying near his home. Clausen’s actions deterred pilots and flight crew from conducting normal operational procedures, thus endangering the safety of those on board, other aircraft, and citizens. 

Speaking to these developments, U.S. Attorney Jim Letten stated: “Today’s conviction of an individual who interfered with military helicopter flight operations by attempting to blind the crews is evidence of our commitment to bring federal laws to bear to protect those men and women of the military who in turn make sacrifices to protect us. We will not tolerate abuses of the military, nor will we tolerate interference with the safety and efficiency of transportation in this country.”