Deputies Rescue Wanted Man From Lake

NEWS RELEASE 19-012 - JANUARY 22, 2018
Garay, Richard
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office charged an 18-year-old Nokomis man for Obstruction after he fled from deputies, entered a lake, and had to be rescued by first responders.
 
On Friday just after 11:00 a.m., deputies responded to suspicious activity near the intersection of Burnt Branch Circle and Greystone Lane, in Sarasota. When deputies arrived, they made contact with Richard Garay who was entering a van parked alongside the road. As deputies attempted to talk to Garay, he quickly fled and jumped into a nearby lake. The agency’s Aviation Unit responded to assist deputies and captured video which showed Garay swim to the middle of the lake and then struggle to stay above water. Deputies entered the lake and brought Garay to safety. Garay later admitted he is unable to swim but went into the lake to avoid being arrested on several warrants.
 
“The safety of our citizens is a priority, regardless of circumstance,” said Sheriff Tom Knight. “These deputies acted quickly and selflessly to render aid to someone who has a complete disregard for law enforcement. Unfortunately incidents like this happen all too often but this is what we train for.”
 
Garay, of 411 Ravenna Street, is charged with Obstruction Without Violence and Contempt of Court for his outstanding warrants. He remains in custody today at the Sarasota County Jail.
 
Video from the rescue can be viewed on the sheriff’s office YouTube channel by visiting www.YouTube.com/SarasotaSheriff.