Deputies from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office arrested a St. Petersburg resident on Tuesday night for allegedly misusing a laser lighting device by pointing it at an airborne sheriff’s helicopter.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 8:58 p.m. on March 3, 2026, while deputies were flying over the area of 38th Avenue North. The cockpit of their helicopter was illuminated by a green laser light.
Flight deputies identified the source of the laser and directed patrol units to 1643 29th Avenue North, where they maintained visual contact with the suspect until ground deputies arrived.
Authorities arrested James R. Mock, age 71, at his residence and charged him with one count of felony misuse of a laser lighting device. He was transported to the Pinellas County Jail.
Under Florida law, knowingly shining or pointing a laser at someone operating an aircraft is classified as a third-degree felony.
“The investigation continues,” according to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
James R. Mock is being held on one count of felony misuse of a laser lighting device following his arrest.
