CLEARWATER — A Clearwater man was arrested late Tuesday night after authorities say he pointed a laser device at a Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office helicopter flying over Clearwater.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:19 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
Investigators say 44-year-old Tomasz Walek of Clearwater was standing next to his bicycle at the top of the Memorial Causeway Bridge when he aimed a laser light at the Sheriff’s Office helicopter. The pilot aboard the aircraft was able to track the laser’s source and direct officers on the ground to Walek’s location.
Officers from the Clearwater Police Department made contact with Walek and subsequently arrested him.
Walek was charged with misuse of a laser lighting device, possession of open alcohol, and violation of probation. He was transported to the Pinellas County Jail, where he was booked on the charges.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing.