Vessel 1 was traveling northbound and operating on plane within Boca Ciega Bay in Pinellas County.  After passing a sign that read "Slow Speed Minimum Wake" the vessel struck Conch Key.  The vessel traveled approximately 30 feet through mangroves, mud and oysters before stopping.

When I arrived on scene I noticed a single vessel stuck in the mud and listing to the port side.Before approaching the vessel I picked up an Officer with Redington Shores Police Department from a nearby house. As we approached the vessel I observed a white male subject who was later identified as operator.  I identified myself and asked if there were any injuries.  The subject said "No, we're fine."  I asked if he was the only one on board the vessel he said yes and that he dropped them off. The subject was unsteady and several times suggested there were other people aboard the vessel at the time of the accident.  He had an odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his person and admitted to drinking earlier in the night.  His eyes were watery and bloodshot.  In a cooler adjacent to the helm were bottles of alcoholic beverages known as "Crown Royal" and several "Bud Light Lime".  Located in the cabin was a black trash bag containing 7 "Coors Lights".  Having been cleared by Sun Star I began a Boating Under the Influence Investigation. 

Based on the totality of the circumstances; causing a boating accident and the results from the Seated Battery of SFST's I placed the subject under arrest for boating under the influence.  Reading the Implied Consent Warning I requested a sample of the subjects blood.  The subject refused and was read the penalties for refusal.  The subject again refused.

The subject was cited for boating under the influence, careless operation of a vessel and was advised of the civil penalty for refusal to submit.

While I conducted my investigation I was advised that witness witnessed the accident.  witness said the vessel was traveling north at over 40 miles per hour when it "slammed into the mangroves"
REDINGTON SHORES