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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A 13-year-old was among two people arrested in separate helicopter laser strike incidents over the past week, according to deputies.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said a 13-year-old struck its helicopter with a laser several times as it flew over the Avina apartment complex in Tampa on Sunday.
The 13-year-old was taken into custody and charged with misuse of a laser lighting device.
“Pointing a laser at an aircraft is not a prank. It is dangerous, puts lives at risk. Our deputies will continue working to keep the skies and our community safe,” the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said.
In Bradenton, deputies said 39-year-old Tony Hill used a laser in a backyard to strike the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office’s helicopter on Sept. 17.
Manatee County deputies said Bradenton police officers and Florida Highway Patrol troopers handcuffed Hill and charged him with pointing a laser light at a pilot.
“Think it’s a harmless prank? Think again! It’s a third-degree felony that could land you up to 5 years in prison,” the sheriff’s office posted on Facebook.