PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Starting tomorrow, October 1st, at 4:00 p.m., Pinellas County’s barrier islands will once again welcome the public, but with heightened security measures in place. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) is committed to maintaining safety and order in the aftermath of recent events.
Sheriff Gualtieri announced a robust overnight patrol plan involving at least 60 deputies patrolling the gulf beaches from dusk till dawn, seven days a week. Both marked and unmarked vehicles will be used, ensuring a strong presence throughout the night.
Read: Pinellas County: How To Handle Beach Sand After Hurricane Helene
The Sheriff issued a stern warning to potential wrongdoers: “Looters or anyone who comes to the barrier islands with bad intentions should know that we are out here, and we are going to put you in jail. This is no time or place to take advantage of people. It will not be tolerated.”
Residents and visitors are reminded that most of the islands are still grappling with power, water, and sewer outages. Any suspicious or criminal activity should be reported to law enforcement immediately.
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