Sergeant’s patrol car burglarized on Big Pine Key

A Sheriff’s Office patrol car, parked at the Big Pine Key residence of a Sheriff’s Office sergeant was burglarized. Guns and tactical gear were stolen from inside and from the trunk of the car.

Sgt. Ken Fricke, who is also a member of the agency’s Special Weapons and Tactics Team, said he walked out to his car at 9 a.m. today and discovered it had been burglarized. His personal handgun – a .40 caliber Glock – was missing from the center console. He said he last saw the handgun on Sunday evening.

Also missing from the vehicle was an automatic rifle – a Colt M4 with a scope – and a second handgun, a .45 caliber Glock pistol. A bag with all of his SWAT gear was also gone, including a bullet resistant vest, helmet, padding and other items. Ammunition for all three guns was also taken from the vehicle.

Detectives and a Crime Scene investigator responded and processed the vehicle for evidence. It is unknown, at this time, how suspects gained access to the vehicle. The neighborhood was canvassed for anyone who may have seen anything. Sgt. Fricke said he did hear his dogs bark between 2 and 2:30 this morning, but did not look outside. The investigation is active and ongoing at this time.

State law prohibits the release of a law enforcement officers home address, so the exact location of the crime is being withheld.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to report it immediately at 305-289-2351. Detective David Brummer is the lead investigator. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers of the Florida Keys. If a Crime Stoppers tip leads to an arrest, the caller would be eligible for a $1,000.00 cash reward. The Crime Stoppers hot line is 1-800-346-TIPS or tips can be submitted on line at www.tipsubmit.com.