Ohio Man Charged After Targeting Sheriff's Helicopter With Laser From St. Pete Beach Condo

A 61-year-old man from Ohio was arrested in St. Pete Beach on Thursday night for allegedly pointing a laser at a Pinellas County Sheriff's Office helicopter. The incident occurred on March 27, 2025, around 10:47 p.m., while the helicopter was assisting deputies with an Aggravated Assault call in the area.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office reported that the airborne crew was repeatedly illuminated by a green laser, prompting them to locate the source. The flight deputies traced the laser to a balcony of a condominium at 6083 Bahia Del Mar Circle, specifically unit 360.

Upon making contact with the individual, identified as Dann Wagner, he confessed to using the laser device to shine at the helicopter. This action is considered a third-degree felony under Florida State Statute, which prohibits the intentional pointing of a laser at someone operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft.

Wagner was charged with felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device and was taken to the Pinellas County Jail without incident. He is a resident of Marblehead, Ohio.

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