On Patrol – July 2012

Updated Aug. 9, 2012.

July 31

Tabletop flop
1:49 p.m. – Officer Fraser – 2100 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – The complainant, who is employee of a moving company, stated to police that while moving a resident’s belongings, a glass cocktail table top measuring 38 inches by 62 inches was possibly run over and broken by unknown persons.

The tabletop was crated inside wood slats and was laid upon the garage floor against the eastern wall. The owner of the table is a resident. The estimated value of the glass is $600. The movers will replace the glass top.

July 30

Rental rider
8:32 p.m. – Officer Skinner – 1200 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to the area of 1211 GMD in reference to a suspicious white male riding a bicycle northbound. A guard at a condominium complex reported this information. The description provided was a white male wearing a light color shirt, khaki shorts, wearing a backpack and spoke with a French accent. LBKPD dispatch stated that the caller advised the person was suspicious because he had stopped at this location and asked about possible rental units in the area.

I observed the subject in the 1800 block of GMD riding his bicycle northbound and he fit the description provided. I made a consensual citizen contact with him. I explained to him that LBKPD had received a complaint that he appeared suspicious because he was asking about rental units after normal business hours and without appointments.

The subject explained that he started a new job today as a pastry baker on St. Armands Circle. He stated that he is staying in a motel off Ben Franklin Drive, but learned through CraigsList.com that there area rentals on Longboat Key within his price range. He stated that he was just riding in the area to acquaint himself. He did provide identification upon request. An NCIC/FCIC warrants check on him was clear. I found no violations with him, and I concluded my contact with him.

Abandoned 9-1-1 call
9:31 p.m. – Officer Skinner – 500 block, Sanctuary Drive – I responded in reference to an abandoned 9-1-1 call. LBKPD dispatch advised that the calls had static on the line, and upon calling it back there was no answer.

Upon my arrival, I met with the guard. The guard advised me that the incident location is vacant at this time. I was provided with a key to the incident location, and I did find it to be vacant and secure. I located three working telephones inside, and one telephone that did not have a dial tone. I was unable to determine if the malfunctioning telephone was the cause of the 9-1-1 calls.

I secured the residence and returned the key to the guard. I provided my business card and the case number to the guard. This concludes my involvement in this case.

July 29

Construction clamor
10:26 a.m. – Officer Nagell – 3300 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to the area for a noise complaint. I located the source of the noise, which was construction at the above location. I advised the subject of the town ordinance governing construction, and he agreed to stop. He cleaned up and advised that he would return in the morning. No further involvement in this matter.

July 28

Private property parking
10:18 a.m. – Officer Nagell – 7100 block, Longbeach Village North Coquina – While patrolling the location I observed a vehicle parked on private property. I made contact with the driver who appeared to be sleeping. He advised that he had just arrived and was unaware of the parking situation. A computer check revealed no wants or warrants. I advised him to park in the provided areas only. No further involvement in this matter.

July 27

Parking issue
8:55 a.m. – Officer Martin – 500 block, Golf Links Lane – I responded to the area regarding an ongoing parking issue. The issue surrounds the construction of a new residence at the east end of Golf Links Lane. The residents in the cul-de-sac (2) are complaining about multiple issues, like vehicles being in the middle of the road, blocking mailboxes and blocking driveways.

Today I met with the construction site contractor. His name is Larry, and he came out to the site while I was there today. I spoke with him in length about the neighbors’ concerns. He stated that he wanted to work in harmony with the neighbors and stated he would work to keep the peace.

I explained to him where the residents lived and asked that his workers just not park in front of their residences. I explained that they could park anywhere else on the street, as long as they didn’t block the driveways, mailboxes or fire hydrants. He stated he understood and would give the instructions to his workers.

There will be times I am sure where they will have to park in the road to offload or pick up a piece of equipment, and that is expected. I emphasized the issue of not parking in front of the two residences. I felt the issue was resolved after the meeting.

Contract dispute resolved
1:19 p.m. – Officer Nagell – 5100 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – Officer Thomas and I responded to a disturbance. Upon arrival I met with the complainant who advised that he had fired his current lawn service company and was having difficulty with the owner. The owner felt that the complainant owed the full contractual amount left on the account. The complainant advised that the reason for the termination was that the work had not been getting done, and he had to hire another service to bring the lawn back to an acceptable level. Officer Thomas and I both stood by while the two parties discussed the issues and were able to reach an acceptable outcome between them. The complainant and the owner reached an agreement without any involvement from Officer Thomas or myself. Both parties left the area without incident. No further involvement in this matter.

Nude Jet Ski rider
5:36 p.m. – Officer Nagell – 6300 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to a complaint regarding a Jet Skier who was possibly nude. I did observe two Jet Skis in the 4800 block within the 100-yard idle speed zone. Both skis were on plane and pushing water. Neither operator appeared to be without clothing. Dispatch advised me that the complainant only thought that the subject was nude. He did advise that they almost struck his daughter. I was unable to make contact with either of the Jet Skis. SPD advised that its marine unit was unable to respond.

Suspicious lights
9:13 p.m. – Officer Walls – 3300 block, Sabal Cove Lane – I responded to a suspicious circumstance. The complaint advised that for the past couple nights there have been lights on in her neighbor’s house across the cannel. She knows the homeowners are gone for the summer and thought maybe someone was staying there illegally.

We were able to identify the house in question. We checked the perimeter of the house and located the lights the complainant described, which were just landscaping lights outside the residence. The house was secure and no one was staying there. We informed the complainant on what we had found, and she was satisfied knowing they were landscaping lights.

July 25

Just released from jail
10:02 p.m. – Officer Skinner – Gulf of Mexico Drive/Schooner Lane – I was on routine patrol when I observed a subject walking northbound on the GMD sidewalk in the 400 block. He had a soiled, disheveled appearance and carried a backpack. I made a consensual citizen contact with him at the intersection of GMD and Schooner Lane.

He spoke very little English, but I was able to determine that he was homeless and he was walking to a friend’s home in Bradenton. He had in his possession a plastic ID bracelet with his name and photograph on it. The bracelet was issued to him as an inmate at the Columbia County Jail.

It was determined that he did not have any active warrants. I offered to drive him to an area north of LBK, which would help him with his travel to Bradenton, but he declined. I concluded my contact with him, and he continued walking northbound. Based on the Columbia County Jail records, the subject had been arrested on July 9, 2012, for Petit Theft. He was listed as “Released Status.” This concludes my involvement in this case.

July 24

Vehicle abandoned
7:04 a.m. – Officer Nagell – 500 block, Gulf Bay Road – I was flagged down and advised that a vehicle has been parked and not moved in several days to weeks. A check was negative for any wants on the vehicle. A check of the listed owners was negative any wants or warrants. Dispatch advised that there were no listings in the log. I was unable to locate a phone number for either of the owners. I had the vehicle listed in the DAV log. Report written for informational purposes.

Theft on Beer Can
12:03 p.m. – Officer Martin – 100 block, North Shore Road – The following items were taken from a beach bag: $40 cash, a black iPhone and purple case. I responded to the Coquina Boat ramp regarding a theft that occurred on Greer Island. The complainant had been taken there by the Yolo Sailing Adventure company.

The complainant stated that sometime between 1115 and 1145 hours, an unknown person had stolen the items out of their beach bag. The beach bag had been left on the beach while they walked down the beach and eventually went swimming. The complainant stated that when they returned the bag was gone. The complainant stated that he checked the area and found the bag in the tree line and the contents had been thrown about. The items missing are listed and the number for the cell phone is 815-751-6117. The complainant stated that the cellular company is unable to track the device, and the service has been shut off.

A note about this complaint was that the tour operator stated that when he arrived to pick up his passengers, he observed two Jet Skis in the area. He stated that when the complainant was telling him about the missing items, the Jet Skis left the area. The only description given was that the Jet Skis were blue and occupied by a white male and white female in their 20s.

July 23

Boat in distress?
2:57 a.m. – Officer Bourdeaux – 4600 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to a resort in reference to a boat offshore that was possibly on fire or in distress. I met with the resort security guard, who stated that a guest of the resort advised him of the boat being in some sort of trouble. The security guard called the Coast Guard and LBKPD.

I observed the vessel about a half-mile offshore directly to the west. There was nothing indicating the vessel was on fire or in distress. The Coast Guard advised that they were sending out their duty vessel to further investigate. Subsequently, the Coast Guard discovered that this vessel was a barge and that it was not in trouble. No further action required.

Dropped wallet
7:10 a.m. – Officer Thomas – 100 block, North Shore Road – Property lost: man’s black leather bi-fold wallet (approx. value $100), containing $20 USD, Florida driver’s license, HSBC MasterCard, Starbucks card, CITGO gas card, miscellaneous cards and papers. The complainant was at the North Shore beach access. He was looking for his wallet, which he believes he dropped Sunday afternoon, July 22 while parked along North Shore. Writer assisted him looking through the puddles and down the drains. Writer took down his information to complete a report on the lost wallet. He advised he would be trying to replace his Florida driver’s license today. He said he would call and cancel his credit cards this morning.

Wallet stolen
4:32 p.m. – Officer Thomas – 100 block, North Shore Road – Property lost: woman’s black wallet (approx. value: $20), zippered, approx. 3×5”, Visa Adventure card, PNC debit card, $10 USD, cable bike lock, Indianapolis driver’s license. Writer met with complainant who advised that she is missing her pocketbook, which she believes was taken from the interior of her vehicle. She said she parked her sister’s 2004 Toyota SUV at the North Shore beach access at approximately 1300 hours and walked to the beach. She returned to her vehicle at approx. 1500 hours and found her pocketbook and bicycle lock missing. She said both items were left on the front passenger seat. She thought she locked the car when she walked down to the beach but is not certain. There was no forced entry to the vehicle.

Writer assisted looking for the pocketbook for a short time with the complainant. Writer advised her that she should report to her credit card companies that the cards are missing so that they could cancel the cards. She said she would do that when she gets back to her sister’s house in Bradenton.

The complainant advised writer that she will be flying back to Indianapolis Wednesday and will need an I.D. to fly. Writer explained that I had no positive proof that she was who she said she was, but I would obtain her driver’s license information through the computer system and list it on the report. Other than that, I explained, my report cannot serve as a substitute for identification. Writer issued a LBKPD case card with case number.

July 21

After hours parking
11:35 p.m. – Officer Skinner – 100 block, North Shore Road – I was on routine patrol when I noted a Pontiac parked in the condominium parking lot near the North Shore Beach access. I suspected that beachgoers had parked the vehicle there, because he had not been there since the beginning of my shift. I walked out to the beach and located a couple. I advised them that the beach closes at 2300 hours. They apologized for the violation and agreed to leave. NCIC/FCIC warrants checks were negative and both subjects had valid Florida driver’s licenses. I concluded my contact with the couple and they left this location.

July 20

No Passing Zone
6:29 a.m. – Officer Morningstar – 4700 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – one misdemeanor traffic arrest, car no. 4 video. Writer while southbound in the 4800 block of S.R. 789 was being closely followed by the above vehicle. Writer signaled and slowed to make a right turn into the Atlas Street beach access and was immediately passed by the vehicle. The area is clearly posted and marked by signage and a solid double yellow line as a No Passing Zone. Writer stopped the vehicle and made contact with the driver.

The driver was identified by Florida driver’s license and stated he had an unpaid ticket and was “pretty sure” he was suspended. The driver also stated he was running late for work and thought it was OK to pass because he could not see anything coming from the other direction. Per FCIC, the driver was suspended June 26, 2012, for Fail to Pay Traffic Fine.

The driver was issued citation 1587-GSG for DWLS With Knowledge to appear in Manatee County Court at 8:30 a.m., Aug. 20; the driver was released on the citation. The driver was also issued a written warning for Improper Passing. The vehicle was left in the parking lot at 4711 GMD with instructions to have it removed by a licensed driver as soon as possible; the driver stated he would have his father come get the truck. A person was called to the scene to assist the driver with transportation. The driver’s Florida license was confiscated and turned into the tag/DL locker at the police station.

July 19

Flashlight walker
1:31 a.m. – Officer Walls – Linley Street/Poinsetta Avenue – I responded to the intersection of Linley and Poinsetta. The caller advised they looked outside their window and saw what appeared to be a person walking through the yards with a flashlight. The caller advised that the person appeared to hide when their lights came on.

When I arrived, I checked the intersection and the surrounding neighborhood. I did not see anyone walking around, and I did not hear any suspicious noises. I drove through the area several more times throughout the night and did not see anything unusual.

Just resting
1:54 p.m. – Officer Nagell – 6800 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to the above area for a report of a male subject sleeping on the sidewalk. I made contact with the above listed subject who was sitting on the sidewalk within the plaza. He advised that he was resting from bike riding due to the heat. He gathered his belongings and left the area without incident. A computer check revealed no wants or warrants.

July 17

Fishy mullet boat
12:02 a.m. – Officer Skinner – Off the Key, Longboat Key Pass Bridge – I responded to the Longboat Pass Bridge in reference to a suspicious mullet boat with three occupants. The call had originated with FWC, then transferred to Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and then transferred to LBKPD and BBPD. There was no information forwarded in reference to why the boat was suspicious.

Upon my arrival I did see a mullet boat with three occupants headed away from the bridge toward the Cortez area. LBKPD dispatch was able to contact the complainant, and he stated that he was at the Coquina boat ramp.

I met with the complainant and he stated that he was anchored on the west side of the Longboat Pass Bridge near the main span. He stated that the mullet boat pulled up to the bridge and tied their boat to the bridge structure. He stated that the occupants then began fishing from the catwalk areas of the bridge, which is posted no trespassing.

The complainant stated that he called FWC and reported this incident at approximately 2200 hours. He stated that at approximately 2330 hours, he contacted FWC again but was advised that an officer would not be responding to the area.

Complainant advised that he had not obtained the registration numbers from the other boat, but he frequently sees the same subjects fishing from the bridge catwalk. I provided him with my LBKPD card and advised him to contact this agency if he were to see the subjects trespassing again.

Criminal caller
12:14 p.m. – Officer Bourque – 600 block, Norton Street – I was dispatched to the residence. Once on scene I spoke to complainant who told me she just had a call from a female who claimed to be trying to lower the complainant’s credit card interest rate. When the complainant questioned the person about which card, the caller hung up. The complainant told me she has gotten about four such calls over the past year. She has never given then her card information and assured me she wouldn’t in the future.

I told her to try and have her phone company block the number, so it cannot call her in the future. I did a Google search, which showed this number has made many such calls trying to get unsuspecting person(s) credit card information. The number comes back disconnected.

Cell phone swiped
6:49 p.m. – Officer Coffman – 4800 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to the pool area in reference to cell phone missing/stolen property. Upon arrival I met with the victim who stated that she and her friend had been sitting in pool chairs on the southwest side of the pool. The victim had the above property in a white plastic case sitting on a table. At approx. 18:30 she and her friend walked to the beach for a few minutes leaving the bag behind. When they returned a few minutes later, the bag and its contents were missing.

The victim stated as they were walking through the gate she noticed two males in their early 20s walking up to the pool area. She stated she had not seen them before but didn’t think much of it at the time. The victim stated the males were gone by the time she came back to the pool. She did not know what direction they had gone.

July 16

Rim roundup
9:23 a.m. – Officer Bourque – 300 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – The complainant works at the Tangerine Bay Club. He found a tire and rim out by GMD. I placed the tire in the fenced area at the police department. No further action taken.

July 15

Melting ball
7:10 p.m. – Officer Morningstar – 4400 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to a structure fire. Arrived on location with LBK Fire-Rescue; occupants reported what smelled like burning or melting wires coming from an upstairs bedroom. One of the firefighters found a rubber ball that had been thrown into an open light fixture and was melting. The ball was removed with no damage to the unit. Nothing further.

July 13

Crawl space suspect
9:14 a.m. – Officer Martin – 500 block, Bay Isles Parkway – While parked at CVS this morning I was approached by a construction worker for the Publix project. He stated that when he came in this morning at 4:30 a.m., he observed a male subject crawling out from under the Mattison’s building. The guy stood up and said hello and walked off.

He stated specifically where the male exited. The opening goes underneath the building through crawl spaces. Officer Thomas and I checked the inside and the outside of the business and didn’t locate anyone. There was an opening in the building on the lower level giving access to the outside and the subject maybe staying inside. I will pass on for night shift to give extra patrol attention.

Shattered
4:13 p.m. – Officer Thomas – 4400 block, Exeter Drive – Writer met with a real estate representative at the property, which she represents for its owner. She showed me a high-impact sliding glass door out on the condo’s porch area. The glass door was found shattered May 27, 2012. The door would have broken some time between May 21-27, 2012.

Writer examined the door. It is double paned and made of high-impact hurricane strength glass. The glass is completely shattered on the exterior glass pane, but not the interior glass pane. The broken glass pane faces a shrub. The glass does not appear to have been struck by anything.

Writer is not an expert in the area of forensics, which includes the knowledge of the patterns and cause of glass breakage. Writer has however, examined thousands of crime scenes involving broken glass as well as hundreds of cases of glass being broken by branches or other objects naturally striking the glass.

Having said this, it appears that the broken glass was not the result of something striking it from its exterior. Writer believes the glass possibly broke/shattered as a result of a defective pane of glass that could not stand the stress of its engineering or position within its structure. Writer suggested to the complainant that she contact the company that manufactured the glass and the company that installed the glass in hopes that some type of remedy for the situation can be reached. A LBKPD case card with case number was issued to her. No further action taken.

Stuck on median
9:26 p.m. – Officer Walls – 525 Bay Isles Parkway – I responded to 525 Bay Isles Parkway for a public service. The driver attempted to turn around on Bay Isles and accidentally hit the median and got the vehicle stuck. Officer Morningstar and I were able to dislodge the vehicle from the median. There was no damage done to the median and the vehicle did not appear to have any significant damage. Nothing further to report at this time.

Alcohol free park
2:41 p.m. – Officer Quarmby – 100 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive/Overlook Park – Occupants of vehicle were warned that Overlook Park is a park that prohibits alcohol. No further action.

July 12

Acceptable swerving
7 p.m. – Officer Thompson – 2000 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I was flagged down in reference to a reckless driver in an older red Chevy truck. The truck was reported to be southbound on Gulf of Mexico Drive swerving on the roadway.

I located the truck at the entrance to Sea Place. The driver was running out of gas and was swerving to try and keep gas in the carburetor. I assisted him with getting enough gas in the truck to make it to the nearest gas station. He was warned about swerving and that safety should be the first priority.

A routine check revealed his driver’s license and insurance was valid. His truck registration, however, had expired March 28, 2012. He was cited for having an expired tag less than 6 months. No further action taken.

July 10

Dip-n-run
12:43 a.m. – Officer Bourdeaux – 3300 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to the area of a mobile home park. The caller advised that a male and female were observed running from the pool area of the Longboat Arms complex and leaving the complex in a tan or gray pickup truck with partial Florida tag JPN or GPN. They then drove north into the Twin Shores residences. I searched the area of Twin Shores and Gulf Shores but yielded negative results in locating the truck or subjects. No further action taken at the present time.

Family kayak missing
11:58 a.m. – Officer Silverio – 6100 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – Missing: $1,000 2006 Ocean Kayak Scrambler, 12 feet, blue. This writer was dispatched for a report of a missing kayak. Writer met with the owner. He advised that he noticed his kayak missing around June 30. The timeframe that it could have been missing was possibly from May 1 to June 30.

The kayak was usually placed in amongst the sea oats behind his home, upside down. The kayak was always dismantled down to the bare hull and the seat; pedals, and oar are stored in his garage. When he noticed the kayak missing, he walked the beach looking for it. He also watched the beach from his second-story balcony to see if someone had his kayak.

The kayak was a gift from family, and he wanted to make this report. The complainant advised that he has two more kayaks. I asked him to make sure those kayaks are secured. He advised he would. I gave him a business card and this case number. The information on how to obtain a copy of this report was also told to him. I let the complainant know that I would be looking for the kayak while on water patrol. No further action taken at this time.

July 9

Missing wallet
12:19 p.m. – Officer Brey – 5600 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – Complainant called to report the loss of his men’s tan-colored leather wallet. The wallet contained his Florida driver’s license, $200 USD and numerous credit cards, all of which have been cancelled. Complainant last remembered having the wallet in his possession at a nearby store. No further information.

Garbage can grabber

1:34 p.m. – Officer Thomas – 700 block, Marbury Lane – Property lost: $60 large green garbage can – Writer met with complainant in reference to a missing garbage can. He stated that he takes care of his neighbor’s house on Marbury Lane while they are up north.

He further advised that the neighbor’s garbage can has been missing since the recent storm. He contacted waste management, and they advised him he needed to file a police report to have the garbage can replaced at no cost. Writer provided complainant a LBKPD case card with a case number for waste management and for his neighbor. No further action taken.

July 8

Pool party
2:06 a.m. – Officer Thompson – 700 block, Marbury Lane – I responded to the address for a reported loud pool party. Upon my arrival, I made contact with the homeowner. He brought his guests back inside, which resolved the incident. No further action taken.

July 7

Lost and tired
12:44 a.m. – Officer Coffman – 500 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I was flagged down by a fisherman on New Pass Bridge about a reckless driver driving back and forth across the bridge. I observed the above listed vehicle driving north across the bridge and was told by the citizen that it was the truck he was telling me about. As I turned around to follow the truck, the driver stopped in the 400 block of GMD. I made contact with the driver who told me that he was lost and was trying to get home.

The driver told me that he had gone to dinner with friends in Sarasota and is unfamiliar with the area and somehow got turned around and ended up on Longboat Key. I tried to give the driver directions back to where he needed to go, but he said he was tired and so turned around that he would rather have a cab take him home and would return in the daytime when he could see better to get his truck. Diplomat cab service was called to pick the driver up. His vehicle was left on the side of the road in the 400 block of GMD.

While talking with the driver I did not observe any obvious signs of impairment. Diplomat cab arrived and drove the driver home. I had no further involvement.

Towboats damaged
10:22 a.m. – Officer Bourque – 5400 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I was dispatched to the station to meet with complainant about damage that had occurred to two of his boats. Once at the station he told me he parks two of his company boats (Tow Boat U.S.) behind the Island Chapel. The boats are tied to a dock but in the water. He told me on or about July 4 unknown suspect(s) loosened the propeller shaft on both boats. This act allowed water to leak aboard, causing both boats to almost sink. They found the boats before they sunk, but both did get some water damage.

I went to the scene and canvassed the area. Across the canal are some condos that have video surveillance. I was able to contact the caretaker. He said he would meet me at the complex July 11 to look over tapes.

Grass blown into canal
1:33 p.m. – Officer Bourque – 700 block, Emerald Harbor Drive – I was dispatched to Emerald Harbor Drive for a lawn crew blowing grass and leaves into the canal. Once on scene I was informed by dispatch that the complainant did not want to meet with police. I spoke to the lawn crew, who was blowing off the inside of a pool cage when I got on scene. I saw a small amount of leaves in the canal. I told the person using the blower to make sure he didn’t blow anything into the canal. He indicated he understood.

As I was leaving the scene, the complainant pulled up. He said the lawn crew was blowing grass and leaves into the canal. He asked if I informed them that this was illegal. I told him I did. He asked if I could get in touch with the owner of the lawn company and make sure he is warned. I told him I would. At the time of this report I have attempted but not been able to make contact. I will continue to follow up over the next few days.

July 6

Bright light disturbance
9:22 p.m. – Officer Thompson – 700 block, St. Judes Drive North – Upon my arrival, I met with the caller who advised he was being disturbed by a bright light coming from across the canal. He advised the light was too bright and shining into his bedroom in violation of town ordinance. I observed the light from the location. I did notice ambient light enter the caller’s bedroom. The light did not appear to be excessive in my opinion.

I responded over to the location of the light and observed the light shade had previously been painted black in an attempt to shield the light direction away from the caller’s residence. I then made contact with a neighbor who looks after the property for the owner. He was aware of the situation and agreed to paint more of the light shield again. The caller was satisfied with the effort to resolve the issue. No further action taken at this time.

Reckless driver
11:52 p.m. – Officer Thompson – 5000 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I responded to a report of a reckless driver that was northbound from the 5000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive. The car was reported to be swerving and weaving out of the travel lane. I located the vehicle and began tracking the Lexus with the patrol car no. five camera recording. I followed the Lexus all the way up to the 1600 block of Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach. No violations were observed during tracking of the car. The Lexus was not stopped. I did make contact with the complainant who was behind me. He was aware that the driver was now traveling safer. No further action taken.

Intoxicated in car
5:01 p.m. – Officer Martin – Overlook Park – Officers responded to Overlook Park for an intoxicated white male. An anonymous caller stated that he had given the subject a ride from out on the water to the parking lot. He stated that the subject was near a white truck with tinted windows.

Contact was made with the subject listed. He was intoxicated and sitting in the vehicle on the phone. We had the subject exit the vehicle. He stated that he wasn’t going to drive and that he was there with a friend.

The subject’s friends appeared later and they had been drinking as well. They ended up getting a cab off the island, and they left the subject’s vehicle in the park over night. All parties involved were instructed not to make a repeat of today’s issues or they would be dealt with next time in a different manner. The cab arrived and carried all of them into Sarasota. Nothing further.

July 5

Cover missing
7:43 a.m. – Officer Martin – 3700 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – I was checking the area of the marina in the rear of the property and located a electrical outlet that the face cover had been broken off. I was unable to locate the cover. Nothing further to follow up.

Language barrier
4:56 p.m. – Officer Thomas – 500 block, Bayview Drive – The complainant advised that she was at the residence of her deceased sister, performing clean-up from the storm. She noticed the listed gray Dodge pick-up truck in the driveway with three Hispanic males in it. She and her daughter attempted to find the reason these subjects were there, but there was a language barrier. They believe the Hispanic males were there to pick up items left by the prior tenants. They believe these men may have been there at the direction of the prior tenants, but because they are not sure they called the police. The subjects were gone upon our arrival.

Writer thanked them for calling us and suggested that in the future they call us before any of these subjects leave the area. I also suggested they call us before they make contact with the subjects as there have been quite a few burglaries on LBK recently. They advised they were unaware of this and they would call the police if they observed anything suspicious. The tag obtained by complainant and her daughter came back to a green/gray Dodge truck registered out of Palmetto. No further action taken at this time.

July 4

Locked out/kicked in
12:16 a.m. – Officer Coffman – 5600 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – Officer Thompson and I responded to the address in reference to a possible burglary in progress. Upon arrival I made contact with the victim who told me the unit is owned by her mother but she was not there. The victim told me that she and her friends, listed as witnesses and suspect, had gone to Bradenton Beach by cab the day before at approx. 18:30 hours. The victim told me that when they returned the front door was kicked in and that a fist-sized hole had been made in the bedroom wall. The victim told me that nothing was missing. As I was talking with the victim, the witness told me another version of what had happened.

Witness told me that all of them had gone to Bradenton Beach as stated and returned at approximately midnight. While they were in Bradenton Beach the victim and the suspect had gotten into an argument and when they returned to their condo everyone went inside except the suspect who had been locked out. The suspect knocked on the door several times and tried to call inside the condo for someone to let him inside. When no one came to the door the suspect kicked in the door, walked into the bedroom punched a fist-sized hole in the wall and grabbed his belongings as if to leave. The other witnesses confirmed the story that the first witness gave me. Each stated that they had been inside and saw the suspect kick the door in and punch a hole in the wall. They stated that after the suspect did this, he grabbed his belongings and walked out the door toward the beach.

Officer Thompson located the suspect out near the beach and escorted him back into the condo where he admitted to what he had done. He said he got angry because he had been locked out and that no one would let him in. He stated that he kicked the door in and punched a hole in the wall. He then gathered his belongings to leave since he believed that he would no longer be invited as a guest. He admitted that what he had done was wrong and offered to pay for the damages and that he would leave by cab if allowed.

Once the victim heard what had really happened she stated that she did not want to make a report or have the suspect charged with any crime. She agreed to and signed a waiver of prosecution for the damages that the suspect had done.

Diplomat cab service responded to the location and agreed to take the suspect to find a hotel room in Bradenton. The waiver of prosecution was attached to this report. The victim stated she was satisfied with the investigation and wanted nothing further done.

Abandoned 9-1-1 call
9:04 a.m. – Officer Thomas – 3700 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – Writer responded to the clubhouse at Twin Shores Mobile Home Park in reference to an abandoned 9-1-1 call to LBKPD Dispatch. I located a phone inside the open clubhouse. The phone handset was on the phone base but upon listening to the earpiece, it had an open dial tone. Writer could not get the phone to hang up, so I unplugged the phone. Neither writer nor dispatch could find any key holder information for the building. Writer left the phone in a conspicuous place inside the clubhouse along with my LBKPD business card.

Peacock preening
11:38 a.m. – Officer Thomas – 7100 block, Longboat Drive North – Caller/complainant advised that she has been experiencing problems with a male peacock bothering her car while it is parked in her driveway. The peacock seems to be bothered by the reflection of itself in the gloss finish of the side of her car. The peacock attacks the image of himself in the reflection. She asked if something could be done regarding the removal of the animal before he causes further damage. Writer advised I would document her complaint and forward it to Town Hall for possible further action. A copy of this report was forwarded to Town Hall for review by the appropriate Town Department.

12-pack beach bound
2:25 p.m. – Officer Thomas – Broadway Beach Access – Writer was on patrol in the area of the Broadway Beach access when I observed a white female later identified, walking through the parking lot with a 12-pack of Budweiser beer. Writer stopped her and advised her of the town codes prohibiting beer at the beach access and on the beach. She placed the beer back in her car and apologized for bringing it, stating she usually goes to Siesta Key where alcohol is allowed. Writer issued her a written warning for the violation. She advised that she would not bring alcohol to the beach again. No further action taken.

July 3

10-speed missing
5:36 p.m. – Officer Fraser – 6900 block, Bayside Drive – Property, stolen article: $100 and older Fuji 10-speed bicycle, red in color with a black seat. Serial number unknown. Complainant stated to police she left her bike inside of the fence in the 6900 block of Bayside Drive while she visited Jewfish Key. The complainant also stated the bicycle was not locked or secured in any manner. When the complainant returned the bicycle was no longer there. The complainant was on Jewfish for approximately two hours. No evidence found at the scene. Police did survey the area of the Village with negative results. Note: The owner of the bicycle called to advise her bike had been returned undamaged. No further action taken.

July 2

Fire sighted on Jewfish
9:05 p.m. – Officer Quarmby – 700 block, Broadway – While working an extra duty detail, Marine Patrol, between Jewfish Key and Mar Vista, writer and Officer Silverio observed a fire on the south tip of Jewfish Key. A group of subjects was contacted, owner of mentioned boat stated that he had started the fire. Subject was advised that this is private property and that the fire was not authorized either. Subject and other subjects put the fire out. No further action.

July 1

Bob Cat leaves tracks
2:17 p.m. – Officer Martin – 200 block, North Shore Road – I responded to the area regarding a Bob Cat hauling sand off the beach into the rear of the location. When I arrived all parties involved in the operation were gone. There were obvious track marks where it had been used in the sand and on the grass. This reportedly happened in the morning this date but was not reported until the afternoon. I saw no signs of any permit posted for the work. I was unable to verify with police dispatch if a permit existed. I would ask this to be forwarded to day shift Monday and have an officer follow up with this at Town Hall.

Park overcrowded
3:42 p.m. – Officer Thomas – 100 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive/Overlook Park – Writer was on patrol and was checking Overlook Park when I observed numerous vehicles inside the park. Upon further investigation writer observed approximately 100 boats on the sandbar to the west of the park. As writer stood by in the park, several car loads of people arrived and entered into the water with coolers. Writer made contact with them as they were wading out to the sandbar advising them that alcohol was not allowed in the park and they should not return with it under penalty of arrest. Most of these visitors advised they did have alcohol and would not bring it back with them.

Writer observed more vehicles with numerous occupants arriving to enter into the water. By this time, the amount of ever increasing vehicles in the park had reached a level so high as to hinder the entry of emergency vehicles. Writer was also aware of the fact that the boat races were just ending and more people would likely be coming to the park to join the revelers already in the water. The park has experienced problems in the past involving large groups of people entering into the water through the park to join in with parties taking place on the boats on the sandbar.

For the reason of ensuring public safety, writer advised LBKPD dispatch that I would be closing Overlook Park until further notice. Writer advised that the gates would be closed and I would be standing by at the park entrance to allow vehicles to leave and also to turn vehicles away.

Writer informed Capt. Quarmby of my reasons for my actions and she advised me that I should standby there but be prepared to leave that location to answer calls for service should the need arise.

Writer stood by at this location until approximately 1810 hours. During the time I was at this location, I turned away approximately 20 to 30 vehicles full of people whose intentions it was to enter the already full park and Overlook Cove.

During this same time period, writer let out approximately 15 to 20 cars, advising them as they left that there would be no re-entry.

Lover’s jealous rage
5:15 p.m. – Officer Thomas – 100 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive/Overlook Park – Writer was standing by at the entrance to Overlook Park due to closing the park due because of overcrowding. Writer observed a man and woman standing in the park near one of the picnic tables. They appeared to be arguing.

Writer was walking toward them when I observed the female begin pushing the male. Writer made contact with them, advising them I was LBK Police. I advised them to calm down and asked what was going on. They advised that they were alright now and said I could leave.

Writer observed some small scratches that were lightly bleeding on the male’s back and advised them I wanted them to walk with me up to my vehicle. The male took on a fighting stance toward me in a bladed position and the female observed this. She then placed herself between the male and I, stating I should just leave them alone. The male stated that he was walking back in the water and that I should not try to stop him.

Writer informed them both that they were going to do what I asked them to do or I would be arresting them both for causing a disturbance. Writer again repeated that I wanted them to walk with me toward my police car. At this time writer radioed for another backup vehicle. The two accompanied me back to my patrol car. Writer stood by with them as Capt. Quarmby and Officer Martin arrived. Both subjects provided their names.

Writer learned further they had been out on the water amongst the boats on the sandbar. They had arrived at the park in a vehicle with other friends. While out amongst the boats, the male subject became angry at another male out on the water who showed romantic interest in the female subject. This led to a physical confrontation between the two males out in the water. When he and his girlfriend came out of the water into the park area, the male subject wanted to reenter the water and re-confront this other male again. The female subject began pushing him when he stated he was going to do this, which is when writer arrived.

Writer was told by the male subject that he did not want medical attention for the slight scratches on his back. Writer noted that both subjects had been drinking alcoholic beverages and both readily stated that they had been drinking while in the water. Warrants checks on both showed negative for any warrants. While speaking with these two, writer was approached by a friend of theirs. Their friend stated that he had brought them to this event in his vehicle. He offered to take them home to Sarasota. Writer noted that their friend did not show any signs of having consumed alcohol. When asked, he advised that he had not been drinking. Writer agreed to allow him to drive the subjects home. Writer made sure they were aware that the park was closed at this time and that their re-entry into the park this evening was prohibited. They advised they understood and departed. No further action taken.

Good Samaritans rescue floating man
11:56 a.m. – Officer Thomas – 4700 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – Complainant advised that her husband had been missing since approximately 0730 hours. She stated that he had gone done to the beach around 0730. She and her sons went to check on him and found him missing but found his shirt and cell phone on a beach chair. A detailed description of him was obtained from her. Writer, Capt. Tokajer, Officer Frasier and Officer Silverio then began checking the area for him.

Within a few minutes of searching, he waded onto the shore. A boat had located him approximately three-quarters of a mile out in the Gulf of Mexico. Further investigation revealed that he went out in the water on a foam noodle. He believes he must have fallen asleep and ended up drifting out into the Gulf. The boater said that she and her husband saw a noodle floating in the water and drove their boat over to it at which time they saw the subject floating in the water about 20 to 30 feet from the noodle. They asked him if he needed help and he said he did. They assisted him as he climbed into their boat. He seemed delirious as they talked to him, providing him with water. He advised them he was staying at the Hilton so they maneuvered their boat close to shore and dropped him off.

Writer had LBK Fire-Rescue respond to evaluate the subject. After a medical evaluation, writer escorted the family back to their hotel room. A LBKPD case card was provided. No further action taken.

Pit bull on beach
5:47 p.m. – Officer Thomas – 6300 block, Gulf of Mexico Drive – The listed complainant advised that there was a black dog on the beach in the listed area. Writer checked the beach and did locate a group of people with a black pit bull dog. Writer spoke with them about the town codes, which prohibited the presence of dogs on the beach. The dog’s owner was identified. Writer wrote him a written warning for having the dog on the beach. He advised he understood and would not bring the dog back onto the beach. He and his family and the dog departed the area. No further action taken.

Noisy neighbors
9:38 p.m. – Officer Thompson – 500 block, Broadway – Upon my arrival, I made contact with the caller. She advised her neighbor and her family had been drinking and were being loud in the common area. She advised that she exchanged words with them over the rules.

I then made contact with her neighbor who advised that they were not being loud. Writer did not observe a violation at this time. She advised that this is an ongoing issue with the caller.

Both parties agreed to avoid future confrontations and stated that they would try to get along. They were both instructed to call the police if there is a future issue. No further action taken.