A Florida sheriff tore into a group of rowdy boaters after a massive, caught-on-video lakeside brawl left families and children stunned.
Polk County Sheriff Brady Judd, known for his straightforward approach and zero-tolerance policy, criticized the group after a chaotic video emerged showing punches being thrown at Lake Winterset. In the video, one person ended up unconscious on the grass while a woman desperately administered CPR.
Moments later, a man unexpectedly punched another partygoer, causing him to fall headfirst into the water. Subsequently, another individual leaped onto him, unleashing a series of additional punches. A young girl in a nearby boat was visible observing the incident.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd condemned the behavior. (Polk County Sheriff’s Office)
Sheriff Brady Judd watches video of the wild brawl. (Polk County Sheriff’s Office)
They all face charges for rioting, affray, trespassing and disorderly conduct, according to the sheriff’s office.
Judd explained that the individuals arrested were from two groups who were once friends. In March, an altercation occurred at a local establishment, El Rodeo Bar, resulting in criminal charges against some participants.
Some in the group resented those charges and Judd even mentioned law enforcement is looking into possible tampering with evidence.
The groups clashed on the water over the weekend and started yelling at each other before it escalated into a physical fight onshore.
Judd said that boaters are constantly violating trespassing laws in the area despite clear signs on properties.
A woman can be seen performing CPR on a man during the brawl. (Polk County Sheriff’s Office)
He linked the fight’s location to trespassing activities, noting how wrongdoers exploit a loophole by standing in water next to private areas before moving onto land to engage in fights, parties, or inappropriate behaviors.
“Set one toe on that land this weekend, and you’ll be arrested. Stand in the water and touch that dry land with a finger, and you’ll be arrested,” he warned.
“Go home and get your bond money together right now… Carry it in your pocket. It’ll help you get out of jail quicker.”
Judd mentioned that loud boaters have contributed to the ongoing disturbances at Lake Winterset. He noted that there is currently no noise regulation for boats but plans are underway to collaborate with the county to implement changes.
