Florida Sheriff Tommy Ford tore into stubborn beachgoers for not taking heed of warnings noting dangerous water conditions before former NFL quarterback Ryan Mallett drowned this week.
Mallett, who played for the New England Patriots, Houston Texans, and Baltimore Ravens, was the victim of rough Panhandle waters, meeting his end at the age of 35 after going under while with a group of people.
Close to a dozen people have drowned in said water body over the past two weeks and, in a lengthy Facebook post, Ford claimed to be frustrated by the needless deaths after having to watch his deputies rescue strangers who ignored the warnings.
He also criticized beachgoers for harassing the folks tasked with keeping them safe.
The Sheriff noted that lifeguards, firefighters, and his deputies have been sworn at and harassed by beachgoers.
“These same heroes, who have risked it all to save others, have been cursed and given the finger, while trying to warn visitors of the life-threatening dangers,” he wrote. “We have used the tools provided by the county commission to fine violators $500 for entering the water on double red flags.”
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Double red flags at a beach signal deadly conditions and indicate that the water is closed, but it appears people are paying very little attention.
“I’m beyond frustrated at the situation that we have with tragic and unnecessary deaths in the Gulf,” Ford said. “I have watched while deputies, firefighters, and lifeguards have risked their lives to save strangers. I have seen strangers die trying to save their children and loved ones, including two fathers on Father’s Day.”
Ford noted that his office does not have the time or resources available to cite everyone but still tries its best to prevent people from going into the water while arresting those who have already been warned.
