Sheriff’s detectives in the Middle Keys are investigating two incidents this month in which suspects stole GPS devices and other marine electronics from boats stored at area marinas.
On July 8th, four boats were reported to be burglarized overnight at the Driftwood Marina on Coco Plum Road. Between last night and this morning, six more boats were burglarized at the Duck Key Marina.
Detective Sgt. Tom Walker says owners of such businesses need to make sure they have working surveillance equipment and good lighting on their property to help guard against such crimes, and to help detectives identify suspects if crimes do occur. He also reminds owners that thieves can come by water as well as by land. He also recommends boat owners remove expensive electronics from their boats if at all possible.
“Over the next week or so I will be sending detectives to marinas in the Middle Keys to help owners with security survey’s of their businesses. We will make suggestions as to how they can make their property safer. It will then be up to them to implement those security suggestions,” he said.
Anyone with information about these crimes should contact the Sheriff’s Office. Callers may also contact Crime Stoppers of the Florida Keys. Tipsters can remain anonymous and, if a tip leads to an arrest in a case, the caller would be eligible for a cash reward. The Crime Stoppers hot line number is 1-800-346-TIPS. Tips may also be submitted on line at www.tipsubmit.com.