Sarasota Police Officer’s quick actions caught on video in boat rescue
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
SPD
Earlier this month, Officer Michael Skinner of the Sarasota Police Marine Unit sprang to action to rescue a man in distress. The entire incident was captured on his body-worn camera.
On Friday, May 3rd, 2024, at 12:30 p.m., Officer Skinner received a distress call regarding an unmanned vessel circling in the inner coastal waterway near channel marker 72, close to Phillippi Creek. Upon arrival at the scene, Officer Skinner observed a boat slowly making circles, with an unconscious man lying face down on the deck.
Without hesitation, Officer Skinner maneuvered his police vessel to intercept the boat, wedging it against a nearby seawall to prevent further danger. Officer Skinner boarded the vessel and swiftly shut down its engine, halting its hazardous motion. Despite the situation’s urgency, he remained calm and acted swiftly to assess the scene and provide assistance.
Sarasota County Fire Rescue was on standby along the seawall and promptly provided medical aid to the individual, later identified as the boat owner, Paul Hudson. Thanks to the officer’s decisive actions, Hudson, who was semi-conscious, received vital medical attention and was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Every year, Sarasota Police Marine Unit Officers Skinner and Dixon advocate and educate boaters in the area on the importance of wearing an emergency cutoff switch, including during National Safe Boating Week (May 18-24, 2024). Officers Skinner and Dixon also played a vital role in getting Ethan’s Law passed through the state legislature. Officer Skinner’s skillful navigation of both vessels and his use of safety measures, such as the emergency cutoff switch, reflects his professionalism and training as a law enforcement officer.
“I’m incredibly proud of Officer Skinner’s quick response and selfless actions,” said Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche. “His bravery exemplifies the dedication of our law enforcement officers to serving and protecting our community.”
The incident is currently under investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to ensure a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident.