CLEARWATER POLICE ARREST TWO IN GATOR THEFT CASE

Clearwater Police, acting on an anonymous tip, arrested two subjects wanted in connection with the theft of alligators from the Congo River Miniature Golf course, announced Sid Klein, Chief of Police.

Detective Joe Ruhlin said, after the photos and video appeared on local television and in newspapers several weeks ago, he received three tips with information concerning the December 2002 theft. One of the tips proved to provide the identity of two suspects. Detective Ruhlin charged Brett Lassetter Clark, 2401 Summerlin Drive, Clearwater, (DOB - 03/11/82) and Philip Andrew Bryant, 2404 Nursery Road, Clearwater, (DOB - 06/16/83) with one count each of Burglary and Grand Theft. Both subjects made incriminating statements to Detective Ruhlin concerning their involvement in the December theft, but denied any involvement in the May 2001 theft case. The suspects claim to have released the alligator (less than three feet in length) into Allen's Creek; however, due to the brackish water in the creek it is unknown if the gator would be able to survive. Both subjects were transported to the Pinellas County Jail.

On December 7, 2002, a video camera captured a subject walking back and forth in front of the establishment at 20060 N. US Highway 19 at approximately 4:05 a.m. The video was enhanced and shown to local media outlets that prompted the tips to come in on the case.

Police are looking for two other subjects who may be witnesses in this case, but have not been able to establish their identity or whereabouts.

For further information on this case, contact Acting Public Information Officer Sergeant Doug Griffith at 727-562-4347.

SID KLEIN
Chief of Police