Pasco County deputies have a strong desire to catch a Florida man who tried to over one of their own behind the “Desire” strip club in New Port Richey.
Just before 5:30 Sunday evening, a guy tried to run over a deputy behind the business.
One reason could be because he was in a stolen car.
Stills apparently taken from the deputy’s body and dash cameras show a young Florida man in the car, a stolen 2017 Kia Optima.
Moments later, investigators tell us, the Florida man drove off, almost hitting a deputy as the deputy was getting out of his cruiser.
At the Holiday Mall Barbershop, support of law enforcement is obvious.
“Kudos to our law enforcement and thank you for all you do,” said Matthew Christian.
Long time owner June Tucker remembers a simpler time.
“Everything here was, you could leave your car windows open, door unlocked. Ya know, everything has changed so much,” said Tucker.
The Florida manager of the “Desire” strip club tells me, his cameras didn’t catch the crime as it happened and the guy involved is not a customer.
He did get a visit from a number of investigators seeking information.
News of the attempt to run over a Pasco County deputy prompted this response.
“Turn yourself in. Stay off the road. You’re a threat to not only yourself but everybody,” said William Neal.
Cops told the strip club Florida manager the guy who tried to run over a deputy is a big guy and has dreadlocks.
“I think people need to take a hard look at themselves. And take accountability for their own actions” said barbershop customer Matthew Christian.
When deputies catch this guy, he faces an aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer charge.
