Angry charter boat captain threatening kid for being on his lawn. Update: he’s arrested

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Posted: April 4, 2025

On April 1, 2025, at approximately 7:30 p.m., an incident occurred in the waterways of Charlotte Harbor involving an unlawful boarding and confrontation between two individuals on separate vessels. Following an investigation by the Punta Gorda Police Department, 40-year-old Brock Horner (DOB 01/08/1985) has been arrested and charged under Florida Statute 810.02(2)(A) – Burglary with Assault or Battery (non-forced entry).

The investigation included the review of video evidence provided by the victim, along with interviews conducted with several individuals involved or present at the time of the incident. Based on the information gathered, the Punta Gorda Police Department Marine Unit established probable cause to charge Horner in connection with the unlawful boarding and threats made during the altercation.

Horner was placed under arrest and is currently in custody at the Charlotte County Jail.

According to the investigation, Horner pulled his vessel alongside the victim’s boat without permission and unlawfully boarded it. During the unauthorized entry, Horner reportedly threatened the victim, escalating the situation into a criminal offense.

In addition to the local criminal investigation, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the United States Coast Guard are conducting separate investigations due to the location and nature of the incident.

“This type of behavior will not be tolerated in our waterways—or anywhere else in our city,” said Punta Gorda Police Chief Pam Smith. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors, both on land and on the water.”

Chief Smith will be holding a press conference at 8:00 a.m. on April 5, 2025, at the Punta Gorda Police Department located at 1410 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, Florida 33950, to address the incident and provide further details on the ongoing investigation. Members of the media are encouraged to attend.

Further details will be released as the investigation continues. Anyone with additional information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Punta Gorda Police Department.

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