Deputies Arrest St. Petersburg Man for Misuse of Laser Lighting Device (26-021)

ST. PETERSBURG- Deputies assigned to the Patrol Operations Bureau arrested a St. Petersburg man for one count of felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device, after he illuminated an airborne Sheriff’s Office helicopter.

According to deputies, on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at approximately 8:58 P.M., the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office helicopter was airborne in the area of 38th Avenue North. As flight deputies were in the air, they were struck by a green laser light in the cockpit of the helicopter.

Flight deputies were able to locate the suspect at 1643 29th Avenue North and maintained a visual on him while providing patrol deputies with the address.

Deputies made contact with 71-year-old James R. Mock and placed him under arrest for felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device. Mock was transported to the Pinellas County Jail.

Per Florida State Statute, it is a third-degree felony for any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft.

The investigation continues.

Additional Information:
James R. Mock (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 12/15/1954
Address: 1643 29^th Ave N, St. Petersburg
Charge: One count of felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device