Sarasota Police Lieutenants Association, I.U.P.A. Local #6043 Member Lieutenant Bruce King has been presented with a letter of commendation for his lifesaving actions by the International.
Sarasota Police Lieutenants Association, I.U.P.A. Local #6043 President Jeffrey Steiner presented Lieutenant Bruce King with a letter from I.U.P.A. President Sam A. Cabral about his heroism on April 28, 2025.
In his letter, President Cabral stated, “On behalf of the International Union of Police Associations, I am honored to commend you for your lifesaving actions on April 28, 2025. You responded with your unit to a call of a boater in distress near the Ringling Museum. The boater, who had no life jacket on, had fallen overboard and failed to engage the boat’s emergency engine cut-off switch. The boat was circling in the water at approximately 40 miles per hour.”
President Cabral continued, “When several attempts at deploying tow lines failed, you jumped onto the vehicle and brought it safely to shore. The boater, as a result, was rescued with minor injuries and there was no damage to any of the vehicles reported. Thanks to your lifesaving and valiant efforts, Sarasota’s waterways and residents are safer. Your efforts reflect the very highest traditions of this noble profession and are deservedly commended.”
Lieutenant King’s bravery was covered by numerous news outlets:
- WATCH: Authorities stop runaway boat in Sarasota after driver falls overboard
- WATCH: Sarasota officer leaps on runaway boat going 40 mph after owner ejected
- Wild video shows officer jump onto high-speed runaway boat
- Sarasota Police officers recount unmanned boat rescue and leap of faith onto moving vessel
- See it: Florida police officer leaps onto runaway boat after operator falls overboard
- WATCH: Florida marine units join forces to stop rogue vessel after captain’s plunge
- Meet the officers who stopped the runaway boat in Sarasota after the driver fell overboard
The I.U.P.A. and LEORF Hero Spotlight shines a light on LEOs whose heroism, quick thinking, and dedication are examples to those in our profession and remind us all why we put on the uniform every day.
