The incident occurred on February 27th, 2023 in Sarasota, Florida.
Sarasota, FL – A robbery suspect was arrested following a tense police chase through downtown Sarasota on February 20, 2023. The suspect, identified as Christopher Gibson, allegedly stole a wallet from a bar patron at Smokin’ Joe’s on Main Street before fleeing on a bicycle. Witness statements and security footage confirmed Gibson’s involvement, leading to a pursuit and his eventual capture.
Incident Overview
Police were dispatched to 1448 Main St at approximately 8:55 p.m. after a robbery had just occurred. The victim reported that while seated at the bar, Gibson engaged him in an aggressive conversation, demanding a cigarette. After making a motion to his waistband and claiming to have a weapon, Gibson left the bar, and the victim soon realized his wallet was missing. The stolen items included various credit cards, IDs, and a U.S. passport card.
Surveillance footage from Smokin’ Joe’s showed Gibson taking the victim’s wallet and attempting to engage him in conversation before leaving. Witnesses at the bar corroborated the victim’s account, stating they saw Gibson grab an item from the bar before confronting the victim.
Suspect Pursuit and Arrest
Officers located Gibson several blocks away near Kumquat Court. Upon spotting law enforcement, he fled on his bicycle, leading to a foot and vehicle chase through downtown Sarasota. Officers pursued him to the area of Cohen Way, where he was eventually taken into custody. At the time of his arrest, he was wearing different clothing but matched witness descriptions.
Despite an extensive search, officers were unable to recover the victim’s wallet or Gibson’s backpack. The victim participated in a show-up identification and stated that Gibson’s face looked similar to the suspect but noted the change in clothing.
Charges and Case Status
Based on video evidence, witness statements, and the victim’s account, officers charged Gibson with:
- Robbery without a weapon (F.S.S. 812.13(2)(c)) for taking the victim’s property and making threats that caused fear of harm.
- Fleeing to elude law enforcement (F.S.S. 316.1935(2)) for evading officers while they attempted to stop him with lights and sirens activated.
- Resisting without violence (F.S.S. 843.02) for actively fleeing from officers on foot and bicycle while they attempted to arrest him.
Gibson was transported to the Sarasota County Jail, where he awaits further legal proceedings. Authorities continue to review surveillance footage and seek additional evidence regarding the stolen wallet.
