Bradenton Beach Police Department conducted a nighttime safety inspection in the live-aboard community of about 42 boats in Sarasota Bay and determined there’s been improvement since the last round.
On Oct. 12, three BBPD officers and Detective Sgt. Lenard Diaz patrolled the 500 feet of waterway east of Bridge Street and south of the Historic Bridge Street Pier in the city police boat.
There were 21 contacts with boaters, 17 warnings, six citations — including tickets for outdated flares, improper registration and anchor lights — and one warrant served, Diaz said.
“It’s getting a little better around here, I can say that,” said BBPD Officer Eric Hill, adding two of the citations were voided as the violators came into compliance.
BBPD also referred a case of two dogs — one being aggressive — to the Manatee County Animal Services. Two days later, BBPD determined a 58-year-old man had died on the boat with the dogs.
The first safety inspection in the anchorage this year occurred Aug. 24 as part of a multi-jurisdictional effort, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard boats. It resulted in seven tickets for anchor lights and numerous warnings.
The unannounced inspections will continue on a regular basis, according to Hill.