May 29, 2024 – Charlotte County, FL
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Charlotte County Fire & EMS partnered throughout Memorial Day weekend to protect the residents and guests of Charlotte County.
Each year, thousands of people flock to the beautiful waters of Boca Grande and surrounding areas to celebrate during Memorial Day weekend. One of the largest draws during this time is the annual H2O Music Fest, which takes place at the Boca Grande sandbar. This year, that event alone brought together an estimated 70,000 people.
Anticipating the large turnout, local law enforcement agencies collaborated to patrol the waters and roadways to ensure safety, provide support, and save lives.
“I want to thank FWC and Charlotte County Fire & EMS, as well as the CCSO Marine and Traffic units, for their diligence over the holiday weekend to keep our people safe. With such a massive amount of people gathering at our beautiful beaches, it is critical to have law enforcement and emergency personnel in place. These collaborations are what make these events possible and what makes our community and guests able to enjoy themselves.”
Sheriff Bill Prummell
Throughout the weekend, the agencies combined for the following:
Marine Patrol Activity (CCSO, FWC, CCFD)
- Calls for Service – 46 (Combined CCSO & CC Fire & EMS)
- Citations Issued – 28 (Combined CCSO & FWC)
- Warnings Issued – 103 (Combined CCSO & FWC)
- BUI Arrests – 5 (Combined CCSO & FWC)
- Other Arrests – 1 (Disorderly Intox & Resisting arrest) (CCSO)
Traffic Unit Activity (CCSO)
- Traffic Stops – 242
- Citations Issued – 211
- Warnings Issued – 114
- Other Arrests – 7 criminal citations for suspended or no driver’s license
It should be noted that the Lee County Sheriff’s Office also had members patrolling the Lee County side of Boca Grande and were available for mutual aid if needed; however, their statistics are not included in this report.
CCSO is happy to report that there were no DUI traffic arrests made as part of this operation. Sheriff Prummell thanks those who made the choice to not drink and drive.
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