Beach City Market proprietor busted
A team of Manatee County Sheriff's Office deputies last Thursday raided the now-closed Beach City Market at 1701 Gulf Drive N. in Bradenton Beach and a home in Holmes Beach owned by Beach City proprietors David and Dawn Viens.
The Manatee County Clerk of Courts Web site states that David Viens of 129 49th St., Holmes Beach, was arrested Jan. 6 by MCSO deputies for possession of marijuana with intent to sell or distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of a controlled substance (Schedule II opium), and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was also arrested for trafficking in marijuana (50 and 2,000 pounds).
The property appraiser's Web site lists Dawn and David Viens as the owners of 129 49th St. in Holmes Beach. The Florida Department of State Web site lists Dawn Viens as the sole officer and director of Beach City Market & Grille Inc.
MCSO spokesperson Dave Bristow said he could not confirm any arrests because the raids were part of an ongoing investigation.
Eyewitnesses to the Beach City raid said deputies entered the premises and removed several boxes that appeared to contain paperwork and files. A witness to the home raid said deputies there also carted away a number of boxes and other items. One individual at the residence, who did not live there, was briefly detained then released, the witness said.
Bristow is on vacation this week and could not be reached for further comment. Another spokesperson with the MCSO said he had no details on the raids or information on any arrest.
The Beach City Market opened in April 2003, but closed just a few weeks ago and the property is up for sale. The Viens also operated the Island Kitchen in Anna Maria several years ago before opening Beach City in Bradenton Beach. |
