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NewsNBC 6 South Florida (WTVJ) – Local NewsJune 30, 2026Sarasota County

Florida father charged after 8-year-old son found operating personal watercraft alone

A Florida man faces misdemeanor charges after Sarasota police discovered his 8-year-old son operating a personal watercraft by himself near Lido Key. The father admitted to knowing the child was likely underage for operation but stated the boy was proficient from previous experience on lakes.

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Read the full story at NBC 6 South Florida (WTVJ) – Local News

Why It Matters

This incident highlights the legal age requirement for operating in Florida, which carries potential criminal charges for parents or guardians who allow underage operation.

Key Facts

  • A father was charged with a misdemeanor for allowing his 8-year-old son to operate a personal watercraft alone.
  • The incident occurred near Lido Key, Florida, earlier this month.
  • Florida law requires a person to be at least 14 years old to operate a personal watercraft.
  • The father stated he was aware the child was likely not of legal age to operate the craft.
  • The father claimed the child had previous experience operating personal watercraft on lakes.

Who's Mentioned

organizationSarasota Police“The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and filed charges.”locationLido Key“The location where the incident occurred.”other14“The minimum legal age required to operate a personal watercraft in Florida.”