Sarasota police have removed a partially sunken boat that sat in Hudson Bayou for more than three years after the owner failed to respond to repeated contact attempts.

The Sarasota Police Department’s Marine Patrol towed the 26-foot center console boat to shore, where it was destroyed. The removal was funded by a grant from the West Coast Inland Navigational District.

The boat’s owner faces a misdemeanor charge for public nuisance and must reimburse WCIND for removal costs within 30 days. If payment is not made, the state will place a registration hold preventing the owner from renewing any vehicle registrations in Florida until the debt is paid.

Officer Michael Skinner said derelict vessels pose environmental risks from batteries, oil, and sewage, while submerged boats create navigation hazards for boaters unfamiliar with the area.

Since June 2024, more than 700 derelict vessels have been reported across Florida. Following Hurricane Milton, the state implemented stricter penalties allowing local law enforcement to hold boat owners accountable.

Penalties escalate with repeat offenses: a first offense is a misdemeanor, a second is a third-degree felony, and a third offense becomes a second-degree felony. Police also place title holds on derelict vessels to prevent owners from canceling registration or selling to unknown buyers.

Skinner said police prioritize working with owners to remove vessels voluntarily but will take enforcement action when owners don’t respond.

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