North Port has dealt with a string of sightings of creepers at area pools. Now, some officials are beefing up security as pool season is underway.
North Port pools have made headlines for the wrong reasons.
Recently, registered sexual predator Timothy Rice was spotted numerous times playing with children.
We also told you about a man who tried to lure girls with alcohol at another pool.
These stories have made officials at the Jockey Club take notice.
“I can’t believe that they let people in like that,” said Bill Iiams, president of the Jockey Club HOA.
Board members are ramping up security.
They’re adding security cameras to cover virtually every square inch of their property.
If you don’t have a pass, you can’t get in. Board members can monitor the video feeds on their phones 24/7.
“You never know what these people are gonna do. While we haven’t had trouble with sexual predators, but we’ve had people wanting to do damage. So we’re keeping an eye out for everyone,” said Iiams.
“We’re very secure here. We have had people sneak in because somebody will be leaving and somebody will be out there waiting when they come in, well the people leaving can’t stop them. But we can see them on the security camera and we can take care of it,” Iiams added.
Over at the Toledo Club Apartments, a manager tells us courtesy officers will be keeping watch over their pools.
“We can’t do it all, it takes a community,” said North Port police spokesman Josh Taylor.
North Port is set to open its new aquatic center this summer.
Police officers will be stationed nearby and numerous staff members are being instructed to keep watch.
“Unfortunately, there are people who are up to no good in this world,” said Taylor.
“Security will be a top priority. This is supposed to be a fun place for people to come with their families.”
In all these cases, officials say these creepers were not allowed in these pools, someone let them in.
Officials stress it takes a community effort to protect our kids and keep these pools safe.
