The Nassau County Police Department is currently being investigated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) over a low-altitude sweep one of their helicopters made while authorities were attempting to disburse a large-scale disturbance that occurred at Jones Beach last week, reports say.
The NCPD is said to be "fully cooperating" with the FAA probe.
On Thursday, June 5, a group of approximately 300 teens gathered on the beach for "senior skip day" and the situation quickly grew out of control.
The New York State Park Police reportedly requested assistance from the NCPD to disperse the crowd, many of whom were said to be fighting. Authorities responded with a significant amount of resources including the Emergency Services Unit (ESU), Bureau of Special Operations (BSO) and Aviation Unit. The crowd eventually dispersed. There were four minor injuries as a result of fights, those individuals were all treated at scene and refused further medical attention.
While officers were at the scene, they were approached by a male who lifted his shirt and displayed the handle of what appeared to be a firearm in his waistband. The Defendant, Kyle Thomas, 18, of 69 Benedict Avenue, Valley Stream was arrested without incident and an imitation firearm was recovered. Defendant Thomas is charged with Menacing 2nd Degree and Disorderly Conduct.
While police were attempting to break up the gathering, a police chopper flew in and hovered as low as 50 feet above the teens, utilizing the downwash from the aircraft's rotors to disburse the crowd; the incident was caught on bystander video that has been posted to Instagram and TikTok.
According to the FAA, aircraft are recommended to maintain a minimum altitude of 1,000 feet over areas that are congested, as going lower creates safety hazards to people and property.
The FAA investigation is ongoing.