Is LIDAR legal in FL?

VirtualSVT

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Basically just curious based on what I've read as to point a laser lighting device at any vehicle is illegal. And the state goes on to define it as visible and non-visible.

Slow day at work and watching clips on youtube leads to interesting searches on google.


CHAPTER 784
ASSAULT; BATTERY; CULPABLE NEGLIGENCE
784.062 Misuse of laser lighting devices.

(1) As used in subsection (2), the term "laser lighting device" means a hand-held device, not affixed to a firearm, which emits a laser beam that is designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object. As used in subsection (3), the term "laser lighting device" means any device designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission.

(2) Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device at a law enforcement officer, engaged in the performance of his or her official duties, in such a manner that would cause a reasonable person to believe that a firearm is pointed at him or her commits a noncriminal violation, punishable as provided in s. 775.083.

(3) (a) Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

(b) Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft and such act results in bodily injury commits a felony of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

FL defining a laser beam:

Statutes & Constitution :View Statutes : Online Sunshine
 

Lt. ZO6

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Many states have exemptions for law enforcement for a variety of statutes, when said activity is performed under the color of authority.

Perhaps, Adam, will chime in.
 

VirtualSVT

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subsection 3

Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
 

txyaloo

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subsection 3

Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

Notice that says on an individual. IDK any LEOs that use an individual in the vehicle for aiming their speed devices.

Based on that, it's perfectly legal to aim a laser at any other part of the vehicle other than an occupant.
 

FordSVTFan

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subsection 3

Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

First thing is LIDAR is used in Florida lawfully. Second, you wont get a LIDAR reading if you are focusing it on the individual and not a reflective surface of the car. Lastly, there is a general exemption under the law for use by L.E. in the course of their normal duties for just about everything. It is the same reason an U.C. officer may possess narcotics, illegal weapons, stolen vehicles, etc.
 

svtcop

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First thing is LIDAR is used in Florida lawfully. Second, you wont get a LIDAR reading if you are focusing it on the individual and not a reflective surface of the car. Lastly, there is a general exemption under the law for use by L.E. in the course of their normal duties for just about everything. It is the same reason an U.C. officer may possess narcotics, illegal weapons, stolen vehicles, etc.

License plates work great!

I think Virtual's boredom may have gotten the best of him on this one.
 

VirtualSVT

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Well One could argue that pointing a laser at a vehicle is pointing it at an individual also but it would be very weak. I figured there was an exemption.

And Yes boredom was killing me. At least today I remembered my external HD so I could watch movies in between calls..hahaha

Thanks ya'll
 

Brutal Metal

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The biggest car stereo store in our town has a Huge Flashing Neon sign out front for various specials etc.. and one of them says "RADAR and LASER Jammers sold here!"
That sign has been up for like 5 years! haha!
 

Lt. ZO6

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The biggest car stereo store in our town has a Huge Flashing Neon sign out front for various specials etc.. and one of them says "RADAR and LASER Jammers sold here!"
That sign has been up for like 5 years! haha!

There are shops which sell water bongs, etc... What's your point?
 

Chili

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LIDAR doesn't shoot a visible laser beam out, therefor is not a laser lighting device.
 

VirtualSVT

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We used to have a place in Orlando Called infinite Mushroom that sold that stuff and you were booted if you said that. They had rules all over the place for that.

Maybe we're just not as cool as you?
 

Lt. ZO6

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We used to have a place in Orlando Called infinite Mushroom that sold that stuff and you were booted if you said that. They had rules all over the place for that.

Maybe we're just not as cool as you?

I'm not a pothead... So probably not. :)
 

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