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Green Laser Strike on Pinellas County Deputies Leads to Felony Arrest
A 71-year-old St. Petersburg man faces charges for allegedly targeting a law enforcement helicopter with a laser pointer.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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A routine flight over St. Petersburg turned into a criminal investigation on Tuesday night after a local man allegedly targeted a Pinellas County Sheriff's Office helicopter with a green laser pointer. Deputies were able to pinpoint the source of the laser and arrest 71-year-old James R. Mock, who was subsequently charged with a felony for misusing a laser lighting device.
Why it matters
Shining lasers at aircraft poses a serious safety risk to pilots and their crews. Under Florida law, such actions are considered a felony offense due to the potential for distraction and temporary blindness that could jeopardize the safe operation of the aircraft.
The details
According to the Sheriff's Office, the flight deputies were patrolling the area near 38th Avenue North when a green laser light suddenly illuminated the cockpit of their aircraft. The crew was able to identify the source of the laser at a residence located at 1643 29th Avenue North and directed ground units to the address. Deputies then arrested Mock and transported him to the Pinellas County Jail, where he was charged with one count of felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device.
- The incident occurred just before 9:00 P.M. on March 3, 2026.
The players
James R. Mock
A 71-year-old St. Petersburg resident who was arrested and charged with a felony for allegedly shining a green laser pointer at a Pinellas County Sheriff's Office helicopter.
Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested Mock for the alleged laser strike on their helicopter.
What’s next
The case remains under investigation by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the serious consequences of misusing laser devices, which can be considered a felony offense in Florida due to the potential danger posed to aircraft operations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible and lawful behavior, especially when it comes to activities that could compromise public safety.
