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8-Year-Old Found Riding Jet Ski Solo Off Florida Coast

On Monday, June 29, 2026, Sarasota Police Marine Patrol officers stopped an 8-year-old boy operating a jet ski alone in Big Pass off Lido Key, prompting authorities to cite his father for a second-degree misdemeanor.
Florida law prohibits anyone under 14 from operating a personal watercraft, making it a second-degree misdemeanor to knowingly allow such operation. Sarasota Police Marine Patrol Officer Ron Dixon emphasized operators must be at least 14 years old.
Dixon noted the encounter occurred during a busy weekend with rough currents, creating dangerous conditions for the unaccompanied child. The father admitted knowing the activity was illegal but claimed his son was "very proficient" with the watercraft.
According to the Sarasota Police Department, the unidentified father received a court date to face the misdemeanor charge. Bodycam footage captured one Marine Patrol officer exclaiming, "Oh my god," in disbelief during the encounter.
Ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, the Sarasota Police Department is increasing water patrols to address rising jet ski behavior concerns. Officers are reminding all operators to obey speed limits and ensure children meet the 14-year age requirement.

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Markley, van Camp and Robbins discuss Sarasota Marine Patrol stopping an 8-year-old riding a jet ski alone near Lido Key and the father’s court appearance

10 days ago·Peoria, US

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New York Post

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8-year-old boy caught by cops jet skiing solo in Florida: ‘Where’s your parents?’

He’s riding solo. Wild video shows a little kid in Florida operating a jet ski all by himself earlier this month, before cops step in and bring him back to shore. “Where’s your parents?” an officer with the Sarasota Police Department immediately asks the 8-year-old as he passes a police boat in the water on...

10 days ago·New York, United States

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Toronto Sun

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Florida boy, dad facing legal trouble over jet ski incident

An eight-year-old boy and his father are in hot water after police in Florida spotted the boy operating a jet ski by himself.

10 days ago·Toronto, Canada

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Fox8

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8-year-old found riding jet ski alone off Florida coast

A father will have to appear in court on a misdemeanor charge after police found his 8-year-old son riding a jet ski by himself near Lido Key earlier this month.

10 days ago·Cleveland, United States

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