Fort Lauderdale resident Shannon Marie Dillon, 42, was taken into custody Tuesday night after she allegedly stole a marked Broward Sheriff’s Office Dodge Charger from the public parking lot of the Public Safety Building at 2601 W. Broward Boulevard.
Vehicle recovered on I‑95
St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Florida Highway Patrol troopers learned the vehicle was traveling northbound on Interstate 95. The cruiser was later found abandoned on the Gatlin Boulevard off‑ramp.
Dillon found in wooded area
Shortly after the vehicle was located, St. Lucie deputies discovered Dillon hiding in a wooded area nearby. She was wearing a ballistic vest emblazoned with the Broward Sheriff’s Office insignia.
Dillon was booked into the St. Lucie Jail on a series of charges, including grand theft of law‑enforcement equipment, unlawful use of a police badge or law‑enforcement vehicle, unlawful possession of four or fewer identification items, possession or use of drug paraphernalia, possession of a weapon or ammunition by a convicted felon, driving while license suspended, and resisting an officer without violence.
Bond court appearance
At a bond hearing on Wednesday, Dillon entered the courtroom smiling and laughing as the judge read each allegation. The judge repeatedly asked her to pay attention, saying, “Please listen to me, ma’am.” Dillon responded, “Thank you very much, judge, and I will not disappoint you.”
The judge noted Dillon’s extensive criminal history and that she was already out on bond in Broward County. He appointed a public defender for her and urged her to discuss any mental‑health concerns with counsel.
When asked about her future, Dillon said, “Trust me, your honor, you will not be disappointed. I’m going to dedicate the rest of my existence… I want papers drawn up to terminate my parental rights as of right now.” She was cut off and escorted out of the courtroom.
Community reaction
Local law‑enforcement officials emphasized the seriousness of stealing a marked police vehicle and the potential danger it poses to public safety. Sheriff’s Office spokespersons reiterated that such offenses will be prosecuted aggressively to deter similar conduct.
Residents expressed a mix of concern and curiosity about the bizarre courtroom demeanor, but most agreed that the legal process must proceed without distraction.
The case remains pending, and Dillon’s public defender will file a formal response to the charges in the coming days.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
