A Henry County man is facing an aggravated misdemeanor charge after allegedly directing a powerful spotlight at a Med Force medical helicopter in the early morning hours of July 19th, according to a press release from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 2:35 a.m., the Henry County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a medical helicopter being illuminated by a spotlight near Highway 218 and the Skunk River. Deputies identified Jeffrey Krieger as the individual responsible. Krieger told deputies he believed the helicopter was a drone.
According to the press release, the flight crew reported the spotlight illuminated the cockpit for approximately 15 seconds, forcing them to remove their night vision goggles. The helicopter remained on autopilot and continued its flight safely.
Krieger has been charged with Assault While Displaying a Dangerous Weapon, an aggravated misdemeanor under Iowa law.
