Regional Crime, Safety, and Wildlife Incidents
Key Questions
What were the results of Operation Sunset Stakes?
The multi-agency operation led to 11 arrests and the seizure of nearly $300K along with hundreds of gambling machines from six arcades in Lee County and other SWFL locations. Authorities have formed a new task force to address related issues.
Why are there more bear sightings in Lee and Collier counties?
Bear mating season is increasing neighborhood encounters in areas such as Lehigh Acres and Fort Myers. The FWC has issued safety tips for residents to avoid conflicts with bears.
What recent alligator-related incidents have occurred in the region?
FWC is investigating an alligator head found dumped along SR 82. Separately, a Fort Myers man survived an attack while fishing in his backyard and considers himself fortunate to be alive.
A multi-agency gambling bust, Operation Sunset Stakes, netted 11 arrests and seized nearly $300K and hundreds of machines across SWFL, including six arcades in Lee County; a new task force has been formed. Other recent incidents include a teen suspect caught in Alabama after an armed robbery, two DUI manslaughter cases, a brush fire 70% contained, a man arrested for shooting at a sheriff's drone, and an alligator head found dumped along SR 82 (FWC investigating). Additionally, bear mating season is driving more sightings in Lee and Collier, including in Lehigh Acres and Fort Myers; FWC provides safety tips. Relentless drought is sparking more wildfires across SWFL; burn bans and fireworks caution advised.