FDLE closes investigation into shooting involving SPD police officer

SARASOTA, Fla. (SNN) – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has completed its investigation into a fatal police officer-involved shooting in February that left a suspected bank robber dead.

On February 26, five officers from the Sarasota Police Department were placed on administrative leave following a fatal shooting involving an officer.

The incident occurred during a traffic stop near US 41 and University Parkway.

Officers attempted to arrest a person, which resulted in an officer-involved shooting in which a suspected bank robber was killed.

“He attempted to stop the suspect and the suspect fled,” said Cynthia McLaughlin, SPD spokesperson. “The vehicle ended up in a pond or ditch. It was underwater. At that point, our officers saw the suspect moving in the vehicle and ordered him to stay still. The suspect continued to move, presumably armed, and our officers opened fire on him.”

SPD was assisted by multiple agencies including the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Fire Department, New College Police, Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport Police and the FDLE.

“FLDE is extremely thorough in its investigation. Months have now passed and they have concluded that the actions of all five officers in the fatal shooting of the bank robbery suspect were justified,” McLaughlin said.

After an investigation lasting several months, the FDLE concluded that the officers’ actions were justified and that everyone could return to work.