Skyward Shenanigans: Florida Man Nabbed for Allegedly Targeting Passenger Aircraft with Lasers at International Airport, Say Police

Florida Man Arrested for Allegedly Endangering Air Travel with Laser Pointing Hobby

In a startling revelation, 41-year-old Farhad Deiham has been apprehended on charges of aggravated animal cruelty, shedding light on a disturbing trend of reckless behavior. The arrest comes in the wake of an alarming incident involving a Jet Blue pilot who encountered blinding lasers directed at incoming aircraft, further unraveling the dangerous antics prevalent in Florida skies.

Authorities in Tampa, Florida, have zeroed in on 47-year-old Douglas Sollenberger, accusing him of repeatedly targeting over 40 inbound flights at Tampa International Airport with laser beams since the start of the year. The Tampa Police Department issued a stern warning, emphasizing the grave peril posed to pilots and passengers alike by such audacious acts.

The harrowing ordeal escalated when a Jet Blue pilot, navigating through the darkened skies in the early hours of Thursday, found himself engulfed in a blinding beam of light during landing. Despite the pilot's impaired vision, he heroically managed to safely guide the aircraft to the ground.

Upon intensive investigation, authorities tracked down Sollenberger's residence, where surveillance unveiled damning evidence implicating him in the laser pointing spree. A subsequent search warrant led to the discovery of two lasers, one of which is believed to have been used in the targeted attack on the Jet Blue flight.

Expressing grave concern, Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw condemned the reckless actions, emphasizing the potential for catastrophic consequences. "These laser strikes are not only illegal but also incredibly reckless behavior that could have resulted in a tragic accident," Bercaw emphasized, applauding the collaborative efforts of law enforcement in swiftly closing the case.

Echoing Bercaw's sentiments, TPA Executive Vice President of Operations John Tiliacos extended gratitude to law enforcement agencies for their unwavering vigilance in safeguarding air travel. "Tampa International Airport takes every measure to ensure the safety of flight," Tiliacos affirmed, underscoring the collective responsibility in upholding aviation security. "Never point a laser at an aircraft!

Florida Man Faces Charges for Misusing Laser; Remanded to Orient Road Jail

Douglas Sollenberger, the alleged perpetrator behind the reckless laser pointing incidents at Tampa International Airport, now faces legal consequences as authorities press charges for the misuse of a laser lighting device. Following his arrest, Sollenberger was promptly transported to Orient Road Jail to await further legal proceedings.

In the midst of this unfolding saga, Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, a seasoned breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, brings a keen eye to the developments. Hailing from Massachusetts and stationed in Orlando, Florida, Rumpf-Whitten remains at the forefront of unraveling stories that captivate national attention.

As the investigation progresses, Rumpf-Whitten welcomes any leads or insights from the community. Those with valuable information can reach out to her directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or connect via X: @s_rumpfwhitten. Stay tuned for more updates on this gripping narrative.

As the legal proceedings unfold and Douglas Sollenberger faces the consequences of his actions, the community remains vigilant against similar incidents that threaten the safety of air travel. With law enforcement agencies and diligent reporters like Sarah Rumpf-Whitten at the helm, efforts to uphold aviation security persist. Through collective awareness and swift action, the skies above Florida and beyond can continue to be safeguarded from such reckless behavior.