Three people, including two juveniles, were arrested after authorities said they pointed what appeared to be rifles at a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) helicopter early Friday morning in Lutz.
At about 1:40 a.m. July 11, HCSO responded to a prowler call in the area of East 148th Avenue. Before deputies arrived, the caller reported seeing three individuals walking through the neighborhood carrying what appeared to be rifles.
The HCSO Aviation Unit located the three individuals, who deputies said pointed the apparent firearms directly at the helicopter before entering a nearby residence.
Ground deputies surrounded the home and ordered the three individuals to exit. All three complied without incident.
"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," Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a press release. "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."
During the investigation, HCSO said deputies determined the weapons were BB guns.
Jetrell Hamilton, 19, and two 15-year-olds were arrested and each charged with two counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer with a deadly weapon.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the sheriff's office said additional updates will be provided as they become available.