Crime & Safety
Off-Duty Deputy Rescues 2 Siesta Key Swimmers
Sgt. Steve Leavitt spotted two teenagers screaming for help in the Siesta Key Beach waters and rescued them.
An off-duty deputy is being lauded as a hero for rescuing two teenagers off of Siesta Key Beach Sunday.
Sheriff Tom Knight commended Sgt. Steve Leavitt for his quick, live saving action.
Leavitt was off-duty and with his family near Beach Access 7 when he noticed two swimmers struggling in the strong current, the sheriff's office said. A 15-year-old female was screaming for help and a 14-year-old male was sinking under water.
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Leavitt quickly swam out the young girl and brought her to shallow water, and then went about 75-yards out to rescue the 14-year old male swimmer and bring him to shore. Neither victim required medical attention following their rescue.
Leavitt has been with the Sheriff’s Office since August 2002 and is currently a supervisor in the Youth Services Section.
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