"Without Merit": Family Condemns Clearwater Ferry Captain's Charges

New Charges Against Clearwater Ferry Captain

In a recent development, the captain of the Clearwater Ferry is now facing additional charges related to the deadly collision that occurred in April. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has confirmed that Dennis Kimerer, the ferry’s captain, has been charged with violating a navigation rule for failing to have a working stern light at the time of the incident.

The crash resulted in one man losing his life and ten others sustaining injuries. The tragedy has left the victim's family in deep sorrow, with no sense of happiness replacing their loss. FWC Maj. Evan Laskowski explained the nature of the charge against Kimerer, stating that it was based on the absence of a functioning stern light during the event.

Investigative Findings and Evidence

When 8 On Your Side asked investigators how they determined the stern light was not working at the time of the collision, FWC Officer Matt Dallarosa provided a clear response. He stated that the charge against Kimerer is based on documented facts, emphasizing that the absence of the light was a key factor in the incident.

Kimerer’s son-in-law, Steven D’Amico, released a statement addressing the new charge. He argued that the allegations against the captain are without merit, pointing to Jeff Knight, the man accused of operating the other vessel involved in the collision. D’Amico claimed that Knight was operating his boat at an unsafe and reckless speed and then fled the scene, which he believes indicates where the fault lies.

He further noted that equipment malfunctions can occur unexpectedly, but this does not absolve other operators of their responsibility to navigate safely and maintain situational awareness. D’Amico emphasized that the obligation to operate at a safe speed exists precisely to account for the unexpected, something he claims Knight neglected.

Legal Disputes and Public Statements

Regarding Jeff Knight, FWC Officer Matt Dellarosa mentioned that the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office stopped Knight a considerable distance from the scene. According to Dellarosa, Knight’s conversation with deputies did not indicate any intention to remain at the scene, which contributed to the charges filed against him.

Knight’s attorney, Kevin Hayslett, criticized the charges, arguing that they were largely based on Knight’s demeanor after the collision. In a statement sent to 8 On Your Side, Hayslett expressed concerns about the justice system, saying, “When a law enforcement agency charges someone based on how they looked — not what they did — that’s not justice. That’s opinion masquerading as law.”

Impact of the 911 Call

During a press conference, Dallarosa discussed how Knight’s behavior came into play, referencing the 911 call. He described how the call revealed a significant change in Knight’s attempt to avoid staying at the scene. The audio captured during the call included a voice saying, “I don’t want you to say anything,” highlighting the concern over Knight’s actions following the collision.

This case underscores the complexities of determining fault in boating incidents, especially when equipment failures and human error intersect. As the investigation continues, all parties involved will be closely monitored to ensure that justice is served based on factual evidence rather than assumptions or appearances.