A TEENAGER and a 44-year-old man have been arrested after they allegedly shone a laser pen into an aircraft, which was assisting in a search for a missing person. 

On Monday evening (November 18), police flying an aircraft over Norton, near Stockton, reported a laser had been shone into the aircraft's cabin, potentially posing a threat to staff onboard.

Police said after carrying out a number of enquiries into the suspects, a 17-year-old and a 44-year-old were arrested on suspicion of recklessly and negligently acting in a manner likely to endanger aircraft or person in an aircraft.

Making the arrest, police said the 17-year-old kicked and pushed an officer in the chest, and had since been also arrested on suspicion of assault by beating an emergency worker.

In response, Temporary Detective Chief Inspector at Cleveland Police, Jon Tapper said: “Under no circumstances should police officers be assaulted whist on duty and we will not tolerate this type of behaviour.

“Officers were sent to arrest the males in connection with a serious incident where colleagues had reportedly been put at risk when assisting the Force with finding a vulnerable person.

“Our officers and colleagues work tirelessly on a daily basis to keep members of the public safe and prevent people from harm.

"Their safety and wellbeing should not be jeopardised when carrying out their duties.”

On Tuesday, police said both men remain in custody whilst enquiries into the incident continue.