Crime & Safety

Sarasota Cop Helped Rescue Kids From Water

Officer William (Bud) Johnson is being recognized for helping a group of children after their boats capsized during a summer camp outing Tuesday in Sarasota Bay.

A Sarasota Police officer is being recognized for his actions in helping to rescue a group of children after their boats capsized in the waters of Sarasota Bay during a summer camp outing Tuesday.

About 43 kids in 25 boats were taking part in a local sailing camp when a rain squall caught them by surprise, causing their boats the capsize Tuesday afternoon, according to Sarasota Police.

Officer William (Bud) Johnson, along with several other officers from his shift, responded to various locations in the area around Ken Thompson Parkway. Nine safety power boats with instructors in them and four squadron members in personal boats had begun picking up the children and bringing them to shore.

Find out what's happening in Sarasotawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"All the children were wearing life vests and used their training from camp to not panic and remain calm," police spokesperson Genevieve Judge said. 

But Johnson could see several of the children in distress. "Without hesitation, he jumped onto a small dingy type boat with of the camp instructors and began pulling the children on the boat with him," Judge said.

Find out what's happening in Sarasotawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“This officer exemplified exactly what police officers are: heroes," Sarasota Police Chief Bernadette DiPino said in a media release. "He was instrumental in the saving of the lives of many young people.  I’m really proud of Officer Johnson’s performance and his example of fine, outstanding police work.”

Officers were able to confirm all the children attending the camp were accounted for and without injury.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.