The state attorney’s office is moving forward with two misdemeanor charges against island developer Shawn Kaleta.
Assistant state attorney Christine Neilson filed a second-degree misdemeanor Aug. 11 against Kaleta for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol and a first-degree misdemeanor for allegedly resisting a law enforcement officer without violence.
Kaleta owns or co-owns numerous properties on Anna Maria Island, including Bali Hai Beachfront Resort, Anna Maria Beach Resort, Coconuts Beach Resort and Islands West Resort, as well as numerous vacation rental units across the island.
He was arrested June 15 by Holmes Beach police after an officer saw him allegedly drifting off the road and almost hitting a sign.
Kaleta was asked to perform field sobriety exercises and refused.
When the officer tried to arrest Kaleta, he refused to comply and became “aggressive,” according to a report.
Kaleta was taken into custody and brought to the HBPD station, where he refused to provide breath samples.
Kaleta requested a medical evaluation, so he was taken to the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton, where he refused to provide a blood sample or formal interview to police.
An officer then transported Kaleta to the Manatee County jail, where he was released June 16 after posting $620 bond.
Kaleta still faces arraignment on the misdemeanor charges.
The court has scheduled a pretrial conference for 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
If convicted, punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.
Punishment for a second-degree misdemeanor includes up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation and a fine of up to $500.