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Florida’s “Lt. Dan” Arrested in Tampa
Joseph Malinowsky, known as “Lt. Dan” on social media, has been arrested in Tampa, Florida. He gained fame for riding out recent hurricanes on his sailboat.
Charges and Prior Arrests
Malinowsky was arrested for trespassing and failing to appear in court for previous charges of operating an unregistered vehicle and driving without a license.
Hurricane Milton Experience
Before Hurricane Milton, Malinowsky declined officials’ requests to evacuate. He stayed on his boat during the Category 3 storm, which battered Florida’s Gulf Coast. Despite the intense winds, Malinowsky remained unperturbed, describing the experience as “pretty mellow.”
Boat Damaged
During the storm, Malinowsky’s boat repeatedly hit a harbor wall. To prevent further damage, he cut his anchor line, sacrificing a $250 anchor.
Faith and Calmness
Malinowsky attributed his composure during the storm to his faith. He believes God directed him to Florida, where he found a boat that protected him from flooding.
Gary Sinise Honored Deputies
The actor who played Lt. Dan in the film “Forrest Gump,” Gary Sinise, served lunch to deputies in Pinellas County, adjacent to Hillsborough County where Malinowsky was arrested. The sheriff’s office praised Sinise’s support for law enforcement.