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Man Acquitted of Aiming Laser at Marine One

1/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jacob Samuel Winkler, a Washington man, was acquitted on January 18, 2026, of aiming a laser at Marine One.
U.S. President Donald Trump was aboard Marine One at the time.
The jury deliberated 35 minutes before delivering a not guilty verdict.
The defense described the weapon as a "cat toy key chain" and said the case misused resources.
The incident also involved a Secret Service officer.

History

Historical Context

The 1995 case of U.S. v. McGowan, involving Timothy McGowan's threats against President Bill Clinton, underscored growing concerns about presidential security. This incident, alongside Jacob Samuel Winkler's acquittal for targeting Marine One with a laser, highlights ongoing debates about the legal system's handling of threats against public figures and the allocation of resources for their protection.

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Story summary

Jacob Samuel Winkler, a Washington man, was acquitted on January 18, 2026, of aiming a laser at Marine One.
U.S. President Donald Trump was aboard Marine One at the time.
The jury deliberated 35 minutes before delivering a not guilty verdict.
The defense described the weapon as a "cat toy key chain" and said the case misused resources.
The incident also involved a Secret Service officer.

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