St. Lucie County authorities arrested Shannon Dillon, 42, on Tuesday after she was accused of stealing a marked patrol car belonging to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. Body‑worn camera footage released by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office shows deputies confronting Dillon near the intersection of I‑95 and Gatlin Boulevard.
How the vehicle was taken
According to the report, the patrol car was taken from a public parking area outside the Broward Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Building in Fort Lauderdale. The vehicle, clearly identified by its emergency markings, was later tracked by law‑enforcement technology as it traveled south along the interstate.
Inter‑agency response
When the car entered the Port St. Lucie area, a joint response was mounted by St. Lucie County deputies, Florida Highway Patrol troopers, and the Broward sheriff’s deputies. Officers stopped the vehicle near I‑95 and Gatlin Boulevard, where Dillon was taken into custody without further incident.
Charges filed
St. Lucie County records indicate Dillon faces multiple charges, including grand theft of an authorized emergency vehicle. Additional counts may be added as the investigation proceeds.
Community impact
While the incident did not result in any injuries, it raised concerns among local residents about the security of law‑enforcement assets. Both Broward and St. Lucie sheriff’s offices emphasized that the vehicle’s markings and emergency equipment were quickly recovered, preventing any potential misuse.
Official statements
Spokespersons for the Broward County Sheriff’s Office said the department is reviewing its parking protocols to ensure that marked vehicles are secured when not in active service. The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office highlighted the swift cooperation between agencies, noting that the rapid response helped protect public safety and preserve the integrity of the patrol car.
Body‑cam footage of the arrest is available on the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office website for residents who wish to view the full encounter.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
