Anglers Confront Sheriff Over Lake Rescue
Published: March 13, 2009
PORT CLINTON, Ohio—A northern Ohio sheriff who had harsh words for ice fishermen after they got trapped on Lake Erie last month is refusing to apologize.
Ottawa County Sheriff Bob Bratton met with a group of anglers Thursday to hear their ideas about what to do the next time someone needs to be rescued.
Fisherman Chris Sutton said he wanted the sheriff to apologize for saying it was idiotic to ice fish on a day when the temperature reached 50 degrees. But Bratton stood by his comment.
Bratton is considering forcing fishermen to cover the costs for ice rescues. He also asked the group to help develop a plan to inform inexperienced anglers when conditions are dangerous.
Authorities in Ottawa County say they spent about $20,000 plucking about 130 fishermen off the ice near Toledo in early February. The Coast Guard estimates that it spent more than $245,000.
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Reader Reactions
No apology is warranted. To ignore the warming trend and strong wind WAS stupid. To build a makeshift bridge over a gap in the ice WAS stupid. To complain now that the Sheriff insulted them IS stupid. At best Ottawa Sheriff Bratton might now say “I am truly sorry you all were so stupid!“ The rescued fishermen should pay up and shut up.
Another example of the spoiled members of society refusing to take responsibility for their own actions - The fishermen in their own stupid logic made the decision to take a risk - but now want to blame everyone except themselves for the predictament they created. Grow up guys and pay for your own rescue - stop wasting my tax money!!!
i think there should have been more accountibility on the part of those fishermen. they not only endangered themselves but the rescuers . they knew the ice was not safe and went out anyway. they should also have to help that county pay for the rescue cost.
it was a irresponsible and stupid thing to do. the sheriff should be praised for his control at NOT throwing those idiots in jail for stupidity. good for him
As soon as all cops and LEO’s are held personally responsible for their actions than I agree.
Unfortunately that day will never come.
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