Deputies Arrest Dunedin Man for Felony Misuse of Laser Lighting Device (26-058)

DUNEDIN- Deputies assigned to the Patrol Operations Bureau arrested a Dunedin man after he illuminated an airborne Sheriff’s Office helicopter with a laser.

According to deputies, on Friday, July 3, 2026, at approximately 3:47am, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office helicopter was airborne, assisting the Clearwater Police Department with a call for service. As flight deputies were in the air, they were struck twice by a blue laser that illuminated the cockpit of the helicopter.

Flight deputies were able to identify the laser’s point of origin and directed patrol deputies to a residence at 1200 Sunset Lane in Dunedin, where they made contact with 62-year-old Eric Gelman.

The laser utilized by Gelman was recovered, and he was arrested and charged with felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device. Gelman was transported to the Pinellas County Jail.

The flight deputies returned safely to the hanger to ground the helicopter.

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:
Eric Gelman (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 4/2/1964
Charge: One count of felony Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device