ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – A routine flight over St. Petersburg turned into a criminal investigation Tuesday night after a local man allegedly targeted a law enforcement helicopter with a laser pointer. Pinellas County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 71-year-old James R. Mock following the incident, which occurred just before 9:00 P.M. on March 3, 2026.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, flight deputies were patrolling the area near 38th Avenue North when a green laser light suddenly illuminated the cockpit of their aircraft.
Despite the distraction, the crew was able to pinpoint the source of the light at a residence located at 1643 29th Avenue North. The flight team kept a constant visual on the suspect while directing ground units to the specific address.
Upon arrival, patrol deputies made contact with Mock and took him into custody. He was subsequently transported to the Pinellas County Jail and charged with one count of felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device.
Under Florida State Statute, the act of ‘knowingly and willfully’ shining or focusing a laser beam at anyone operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft is classified as a third-degree felony.
Law enforcement officials noted that such actions pose a significant safety risk to pilots and their crews. The case remains under investigation by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
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