MacDil AFB historian accused of laser pointing

TAMPA, Fla. — A historian at MacDill Air Force Base is accused of pointing a laser at a sheriff's helicopter near Tampa.

The Tampa Tribune reports William R. Polson was arrested Friday. Hillsborough County Sheriff's deputies say Polson pointed a laser at a helicopter as it conducted routine flight operations near the Plant City Airport around 11 p.m.

Authorities determined the laser came from a nearby subdivision. Sheriff's spokesman Larry McKinnon says Polson had driven away when deputies arrived but was pulled over and arrested.

Polson is a historian for the 6th Air Mobility Wing at MacDill.

He was charged with misuse of a laser and obstructing an officer without violence. He posted a $2,500 bond Sunday. Records don't show whether he's hired an attorney.

In Other News

As the VA secretary departs, focus remains on outreach, trust

VA care and benefits have seen signifcant growth in recent years, a trend that the outgoing secretary hopes will continue.

Advocates fear dismantling of DOD’s extremism prevention, DEI programs

Trump’s choice for defense secretary said DEI programs eroded the military's values and described anti-extremism policies as a "purge."

Opinion

Why the military’s approach to its suicide epidemic is failing

In this opinion piece, the chairman of Boulder Crest Foundation argues that current military suicide prevention efforts are falling short.

VA acknowledges significant errors in budget shortfall predictions

Department leaders had warned of funding gaps of up to $18 billion but now believe those estimates were too high.

Women in combat ‘proficient,’ SecDef says, dismissing calls for change

Austin praised women in the military and said they should not be removed from front-line fighting posts.

Load More