Off-duty sergeant saves two swimming teens

Sergeant Steve Leavitt was off duty with his family visiting Siesta Key Beach on Sunday, April 29 when he noticed two teenagers struggling in the surf. A 15-year-old girl was screaming as a 14-year-old boy nearby was pulled beneath the water surface.

The deputy swam out to the girl and led her into to shallow waters before returning for the other teen. He swam roughly 75 yards to rescue the sinking boy and bring him to shore, according to a new release from the Sheriff’s Office.

Neither teen needed medical assistance following the deputy’s rescue.

Contact Alex Mahadevan at [email protected].