ST. PETE BEACH, FL – A St. Pete Beach man was arrested Thursday, March 27, 2025, after deputies say he shined a laser at a Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) helicopter.
According to the PCSO, the incident occurred at approximately 10:47 p.m. while the helicopter was assisting with an aggravated assault call near 6850 Beach Plaza. Deputies in the aircraft observed a green laser being aimed at them multiple times.
Flight deputies tracked the laser source to a balcony at 6083 Bahia Del Mar Circle. Deputies on the ground responded and identified 61-year-old Dann Wagner of Marblehead, Ohio, as responsible. Wagner admitted to pointing the laser at the aircraft.
Under Florida law, knowingly shining a laser at an aircraft operator is a third-degree felony. Wagner was arrested for felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device and booked into the Pinellas County Jail without incident.
The investigation continues.