Central Florida teenagers were arrested for pointing BB guns at a law enforcement helicopter.
When the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office recently responded to the area of East 148th Avenue in Lutz near Tampa regarding a prowler call for service, the caller reported seeing three individuals walking through the neighborhood carrying what appeared to be rifles before deputies arrived.
When the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit responded, pilots quickly located the three individuals, who then pointed the apparent firearms directly at the helicopter before entering a nearby residence.
Deputies on the ground gave commands for 19-year-old Jertrell Hamilton, 15-year-old Javis Hamilton, and 15-year-old Brayden Eason to exit the residence. All three complied without incident, according to local law enforcement.
During the investigation, it was determined the weapons were BB guns, according to HCSO.
“Our deputies make split-second decisions every day to protect this community, and we have zero tolerance for anyone who points what appears to be a weapon at them, whether they’re on the ground or in the air,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “If you aim what looks like a rifle at one of our deputies or our Aviation Unit, expect our immediate response and to be held fully accountable for your actions.”
All three teenagers were arrested and charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer with a Deadly Weapon.
