The Phoenix police often solicit the help of news choppers to track criminals from the air that they otherwise could not track on land. In these instances the reporters act as an extension of the police, and often help catch criminals when police helicopters are otherwise occupied or incapable of getting to the scene in time.
If the news crews were doing the bidding of the Phoenix PD, then I believe it would be more than acceptable to prosecute the man. If the helicopters had been there solely to get a story, and had not been asked by the police to participate in the chase, then I do not think that the man should be held responsible.
I'm also interested to know how the whole thing happened (equipment malfunction? Just not paying attention?) Only time will tell.
It's just heartbreaking watching the newscasters choking up while they talk of their fellow reporters and cameramen.
