(a) For purposes of this Code section, the term laser device means a device designed to amplify electro-magnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object. Such term also means a device that projects a beam or point of light by means of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation or other means or that emits light which simulates the appearance of a beam of light.
(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly and intentionally project upon a law enforcement officer any laser device without such officer’s permission if: (1) The law enforcement officer is lawfully acting within the course and scope of employment; and (2) The person has knowledge or reason to know that the law enforcement officer is employed as: (A) A peace officer as defined in paragraph (8) of Code Section 35-8-2; (B) An employee with the power of arrest by the Department of Corrections; (C) An employee with the power of arrest by the State Board of Pardons and Paroles; (D) A community supervision officer or other employee with the power of arrest by the Department of Community Supervision; (E) A jail officer or guard by a county or municipality and has the responsibility of supervising inmates who are confined in a county or municipal jail or other detention facility; or (F) A juvenile correctional officer or juvenile probation officer by the Department of Juvenile Justice and has the primary responsibility for the supervision and control of youth confined in such department’s pro- grams and facilities.
(c) Any person who violates subsection (b) of this Code section shall be guilty of a high and aggravated misdemeanor.
(d) It shall not be a defense to a prosecution for a violation of this Code section that the laser device was pointed at such officer through a glass, window, or other transparent or translucent object.
(e) Each violation of this Code section shall constitute a separate offense. A sentence imposed under this Code section may be imposed separately from and consecutive to or concurrent with a sentence for any other offense related to the act or acts establishing the offense under this Code section.