Weapons stolen from Sarasota County detective’s unlocked agency car

Several firearms and pieces of duty equipment were stolen from a Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office detective and SWAT team member’s agency car.

Detectives were notified early Tuesday morning that Detective Brian Keane, an 18-year veteran of the sheriff’s office and city of North Port resident, left his vehicle unlocked and the theft occurred sometime between Monday evening and early Tuesday morning.

The suspect or suspects stole two firearms and several pieces of specialized equipment, including a sniper rifle.

“The sheriff is very disappointed in this detective and his lack of attention,” said Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Community Affairs Director Kaitlyn Perez. “There is a rifle out there, in the hands of someone who shouldn’t have it.”

The sheriff’s office has launched an internal affairs investigation.

“It’s important that the community knows we’re working every possible lead to get these weapons back in safe hands,” Perez said.

Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is asking if anyone has any information related to the burglar and/or stolen equipment is asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Section at 941-861-4900, or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers of Sarasota by calling 941-861-TIPS. The agency will also accept any tips through social media platforms.

“It’s a tough day for us, it’s a tough day for the agency and a tough day for Sheriff (Tom) Knight,” Perez said. “Nothing has ever been stolen as significant as this sniper rifle.”