Deputies Search For Suspected Migrant Smuggler Who Fled From Vessel Stop
Sgt. Dan Keim with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit said law enforcement officers were conducting patrols early this morning near San Carlos Bay when they saw the suspicious vessel heading out from the Punta Rassa boat ramp. Keim said when authorities tried to stop the boat, the suspect then jumped from the vessel, got to shore and fled the scene. “They attempted to do a boarding, and it took off,” Keim said. “There was a short pursuit in the vicinity, and the boat ended up crashing into a dock at the Captiva Towers.” The suspect has not been located.
Keim said the boat had clear indications it was used for illegal immigrant smuggling, including 15 30-gallon gas tanks, a bladder containing about 50 gallons of gas, lots of food and water and several life jackets. There were fishing rods and a brand new American flag found on the boat. The rods still had price tags on them. The food included crackers and Spam. Keim said the rods and flag were likely meant to disguise the boat. A description of the suspects has not been released. The sheriff’s office is planning on transporting the boat, but can’t until some of the gas is removed.
Filed Under: Alien & Migrant Interdiction • Crimes • News
