19OFF007669 Redacted
19OFF007669 Redacted
RELATED WEAPONS
Weapon Feature Description
Fire/Incendiary Device GASOLINE AND A BIC LIGHTER
CHARGES/OFFENSES
Statute: 784.07.2c Counts : 1 UCR: 130A NCIC :
Charge : ASSAULT
Desc : ON OFFICER FIREFIGHTER EMT ETC
General Offense Code... (GOC) : P Principal
Arrest Charge Level......(ACL) : F Felony
Arrest Charge Degree...(ACD) : S Second Degree
Arrest Offense Number.(AON) : 1399
Statute: 806.01.1 Counts : 1 UCR: 2000 NCIC :
Charge : ARSON
Desc : 1ST DEGREE DWELLING BUILDING PEOPLE PRESENT
General Offense Code... (GOC) : A Attempt
Arrest Charge Level......(ACL) : F Felony
Arrest Charge Degree...(ACD) : F First Degree
Arrest Offense Number.(AON) : 2099
WEAPONS
Weapon Feature Description
Fire/Incendiary Device GASOLINE AND A BIC LIGHTER
RELATED PERSONS
VICTIM RODRIGUEZ, FREDDY JOSE
VICTIM MESSIER, MARTY
VICTIM DUPREE, DAVID
VICTIM FRICKE, THOMAS HAROLD
SUSPECT BOUNDS, ADAM BRUCE
Deputy Fricke was on scene of a shooting where another law enforcement officer shot a
suspect. During the transport and treatment of the victim Fricke obtained blood exposure to
his hands, body and uniform. Fricke also had direct ear exposure to at 3 live fire shots with
out hearing protection.
I gave Fricke the phone number to make a first report of injury (standard workman's comp
criteria) and his uniform was red bagged for containment.
It was decided that we would board Mr. Bounds's vessel to check his welfare. We
decided that Capt. Dipre and I would board Mr. Bonds's vessel. I transferred over to Capt.
Dipre's vessel. Our vessel approached from the side of Mr. Bounds's vessel, while the other
vessel approached from the rear. Capt. Dipre boarded the vessel first and stood by the sliding
glass door at the rear of Mr. Bounds's vessel. I stood on a floating dock tied to Mr. Bounds's
vessel. There was not enough room for both, Capt. Dipre and I to be on the rear of Mr.
Bounds's vessel without exposing ourselves to more danger. Capt. Dipre checked the sliding
glass door and realized it was locked. We were still unable to see inside the cabin due to the
door and windows were still covered with sheets and blankets. Capt. Dipre knocked on the
door and identified himself and the sheriff's office. Capt. Dipre asked for Mr. Bounds to
unlock the door and come outside the cabin to meet with us. There was no response. Capt.
Dipre did this several times before deciding we needed to pry the door open to check Mr.
Bounds's well being. We did not know whether Mr. Bounds had hurt himself and was in need
of our assistance. Capt. Dipre asked for a prying tool to pry the sliding glass door open. Dep.
Fricke boarded Mr. Bounds's vessel from the rear and brought over a prying tool. Capt.
Dipre attempted to pry the sliding glass open, but was unable to do it. I instructed Dep. Fricke
for him to pry the door open instead. Dep. Fricke bent down and pried the sliding glass door
from the bottom, causing the latch to come loose. The door came unlocked and slid open.
Once this happened, I heard a voice coming from inside the cabin, which shouted, "I'm
GOING TO BLOW US ALL UP", "YOU'RE TRESPASSING ON MY BOAT", "I'm
TAKING YOU ALL WITH ME". or something to that effect. Capt. Dipre was standing in
front of the sliding glass door with his duty weapon in his hand and began to give loud verbal
commands to step back and drop the lighter. I instructed Dep. Fricke to grab the sheet that
was covering the door way and pull it to the side to allow Capt. Dipre to see inside the cabin.
Summary:
On Tuesday, October 15, 2019, at approximately 11:54am., the Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Monroe County Sheriff's Office (MCSO)
were dispatched to a vessel moored between Safe Harbor North and Cow Key Channel South,
Oceanside, Key West, Florida, for a welfare check on a possible suicidal individual. The
caller, Adam Bruce Bounds, W/M (DOB 04/10/1977), had made threats to harm himself.
Units responding from FWC were Capt. David Dipre, Lt. Andy Cox, and Officers
John Hettel, Glen Way, and Marty Messier. They were joined by Deputies Thomas Fricke
and Freddy Rodriguez from the MCSO.
As officers made entry onto the vessel, Bounds began pouring gasoline on himself,
while at the same time, holding a lit cigarette lighter and stating he would blow everyone up.
Capt. David Dipre fired 3 shots, striking Bounds three times. Bounds was immediately
secured and transported back to shore, where Key West Rescue transported him to Lower
Keys Medical. He was then airlifted to Jackson South Medical Center, 9333 SW 152 Street,
Miami, Florida. No officers or other civilians were injured during this incident.
On 10/21/2019, myself, Det. Curry, and Sgt. Mixon met with Val Winter at the
S.A.O. I provided him with a "rough draft warrant, " based on the interview of Capt. Dipre.
We discussed possible charges of attempted arson and aggravated assault on a law
enforcement officer. During this meeting, Val suggested that we obtain a search warrant, for
Bounds' vessel, so we could go collect the black curtain with the three bullet holes in it.
On 10/21/2019, myself and Det. Curry wrote up a search warrant, which was
approved by Christina Cory at S.A.O.
On 10/22/2019, the search warrant was signed by Judge Wilson. Myself, Det.
Curry, Det. Underwood, and Sgt. Mixon went to Bounds' vessel to serve the search warrant.
We were taken there by Marine Dep. Riggs. (See John Underwood's supplement for further).
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On 10/23/2019, I listened to all the officers' interviews, which were done by FDLE.
They have been placed onto one disc and submitted into evidence under property receipt#
173029. Below are my notes from these interviews:
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Bounds states that on the day of the incident, he called Internal Affairs (IA) and made a
complaint.
Bounds vaguely remembers the conversation. He does not remember making any comments
to harm himself.
"IA" asked if he wanted to hurt himself and where his location was.
Bounds said he did not want o hurt himself, but did not want to tell them his location.
After that, the rest of the day was a blur.
Bounds stayed on his boat after the phone call and went to bed.
Bounds woke up to 3 cops, with guns drawn, and he got shot.
Bounds did not hear the officers approaching his vessel, trying to call him on his phone,
trying to get his attention by use of the p.a., or knocking on his front door. He said he is a
heavy sleeper.
Bounds only became aware, that someone was on the boat, when the sliding glass door was
pried open.
Bounds stated that he walked up to the door, but can't remember after that.
He heard someone yell, "He's got gas" and heard someone say something about a
lighter...and they shot him.
He doesn't remember if he had gas.
Bounds remembers seeing a bullet hole in his side.
Bounds does not remember the helicopter ride to the hospital.
He did admit that he has made some sad, depressing statements on Facebook.
Bounds then spoke about being harassed by FWC.
The surveillance cameras on his boat are fake.
Bounds doesn't remember giving his dog to a "friend" .
But he did this because he knew he had a warrant and was afraid for his well being and the
dog's well being if he got arrested.
Bounds knows that he was shot by more than 1 officer.
942 Jolly Rd
North Fort Meyers, FL 33903
305-240-9624
On 12/27/2019, I met with Jenna Ketcham in her office. She told me that on the
morning of 10/15/2019, she had a voice mail, on her office phone, from Adam Bounds.
Around 9:30am, she returned his call and he began to tell her how frustrated he was because
he felt that he had come into compliance with the citations he received from FWC, yet there
was still a warrant for his arrest. He also told her that he attempted to call his Public
Defender, but no one was available to speak with him. Jenna told me that Adam's emotions
were a mixture of calmness, crying, and frustration. Especially because if he went to jail, he
would have to find someone to take care of his dog. Adam also told her that the stress of the
situation made him feel like he wanted to kill himself. Jenna told him that she would call the
Public Defender and see if anyone could assist. Adam said he would call her back after he
called a friend. Jenna did call the Public Defender and although no one was available at that
time, she left a message for someone to contact Adam about this situation. When Adam called
back, Jenna told him that the Public Defender would be contacting him later in the day and
Adam seemed satisfied with that and the call ended.
On 02/18/2020, Special Agent (SA) Andrew Kempel and I met with Jennifer
Cabarga at Prop Tech Marathon located at 11239 Overseas Highway, Marathon,
Florida. Kempel had previously informed me that through Bounds' phone records, he
discovered that Bounds sent Cabarga a text message on 10/15/2019, around the same time
that FWC and the MCSO were attempting to make contact with him. We requested to see
any messages that Cabarga may have received from Bounds around the time of his
involvement in the officer use of force incident on 10/15/2019.
Cabarga was initially resistant to providing any information off of her phone
without proper paperwork, but eventually conceded and voluntarily provided the information
requested after taking some time to consult and reflect on the matter. Cabarga allowed me to
take a photograph of a text message from 10/15/2019, 12:41 p.m. that indicated "FWC is at
my boat now." Additionally, I took a photograph of the contact card for "Adam Grassy"
10/23/2019 08:31 PROBABLE CAUSE GABAY, JOHN S154 S8602 5/21/2020 14:11
Status: APPROVED MIXON, LINDA ELIZABETH 2/11/2020 07:33
This information was passed on to FWC Captain David Dipre, who is a 25 year
veteran with FWC and has spent his entire career working in the Florida Keys. Dipre, in
turn, contacted several of his officers for assistance, including FWC Officer Glen Way. Way
told Dipre that he was familiar with Bounds' residence, which was on a houseboat anchored
off of Cow Key Channel.
Before responding, Dipre contacted MCSO dispatch and had them "ping" the
Bounds’ phone number a second time to confirm Bounds' location. Metro PCS responded
that the phone was still in the area of Cow Key Channel. Because of that information, Dipre
strongly believed that Bounds was on his houseboat.
FWC Officers Way, Andy Cox, John Hettel, and Marty Messier responded to assist
Dipre with the welfare check of Bounds. MCSO Deputies Freddy Rodriguez and Thomas
Fricke also responded. All officers were wearing their agency issued uniforms. The officers
Bounds' houseboat can be best described as two pontoon boats secured together.
One of the pontoon boats has two enclosed wooden structures on it that are attached together.
This appears to be the sleeping/living quarters. On one side are the words "4th Amendment"
written in large letters as well as the registration numbers "FL2674GH". Those registration
numbers return to a 24 foot vessel, which is owned by Bounds. On the front side of the
wooden structure is a sliding glass door, which leads out onto the second pontoon boat, which
appears to be an open air deck/patio area. On the port side of this second boat are the
registration numbers "FL8083LK" which return to a 24 foot vessel also owned by Bounds.
On the port side, between both vessels, is a small floating dock which has several paddle
boards on it.
Fearing even more for Bounds’ safety, Dipre tried opening the sliding glass door to
gain access to the houseboat, but it was locked. Fricke boarded Bounds' houseboat with two
screwdrivers, handing Dipre one of them. Together, they were able to pry open the sliding
glass door. Once the door was open, there was a black curtain which prevented Dipre from
seeing further inside the vessel. Fricke pulled the curtain to one side and Dipre saw Bounds
approaching him while yelling, “Get the fuck out. I have gasoline and will blow this whole
place to hell.” Bounds had both hands above his head. In one hand he held a red,
multi-gallon gas container (6 gallon). Dipre said Bounds was actively pouring gasoline all
over himself and the cabin floor, while holding a "BIC"-style lighter in his other hand. When
Bounds lit the lighter, Dipre yelled at Bounds to “Get back.”
At this time, three officers were physically on Bounds' vessel (patio/deck area) and
the fourth officer, Rodriguez, was on the floating dock, right next to the boat. On this
patio/deck area was a propane tank connected to a grill, a gas generator, and other
combustible items. Dipre was the closest officer and the only officer who had a clear,
unobstructed view of what Bounds' actions were.
Based on his training and experience, Dipre believed all four officers' lives were in
immediate danger.Dipre believed that even if Bounds only lit himself on fire, it would
instantly spread due to the fact that the gasoline was running off of his body and pooling on
the floor. In addition to the other combustible items onboard, the gasoline fumes were being
contained inside Bounds’ houseboat creating the possibility of an explosion. Dipre felt that if
an explosion occurred, everything on the boat would become shrapnel. Dipre believed that
the lighter had to go out so he gave loud verbal commands for Bounds to get back and put the
lighter down. Bounds did not and Dipre fired his service weapon three times, striking Bounds
at approximately 1:08 p.m. Dipre estimated that he was approximately five feet away from
Bounds at this point.
Fricke was standing by the sliding glass door, holding the black curtain back, so
Dipre could have an unobstructed view. From Fricke's position, he could not see Bounds
holding the lighter, but he could see Bounds with the red gas can, pouring gasoline all over
himself and the floor. Fricke could also smell a strong odor of gasoline. He remembers
Bounds making the statements, "Get the fuck off my boat. I'll blow us all up” followed by
Dipre telling Bounds to, "Put the lighter down. Put the lighter down". When Dipre yelled,
"Retreat. Retreat," Fricke let go of the curtain and Dipre fired his weapon.
Rodriguez was positioned to the right of Fricke and was standing on the floating
dock. He could not see Bounds from this location, but heard Bounds saying, "I'm going to
blow us all up. You are trespassing on my boat." Rodriguez also heard Dipre say, "Drop the
lighter. Drop the gas can." Then he saw Dipre fire his weapon.
Messier was on the starboard side of the bow. Although he could not see Bounds'
face when the black curtain was pulled to the side, he saw someone with a gas can above their
body with liquid coming out. Messier remembers hearing Dipre say, "Put it down. Don't do
it. Put it down. Don't do it." He then heard three gunshots.
Bounds fell to the floor and was immediately secured in handcuffs. He was then
rushed to shore, where Key West Rescue transported Bounds to the hospital.
Although a total of seven law enforcement officers were on scene at the time, only
four were wearing body cameras – Messier, Cox, Hettel and Way. Dipre, Rodriguez, and
Fricke wear not wearing body cameras. Due to the varying locations and positions of the
officers, each body camera (and microphone) picks up something different. There is no
footage of Bounds’ actions or the subsequent shooting.
On Messier's body camera, you can hear Rodriguez leaving Bounds a voice
message that officers were there to assist him (Bounds) in any way possible (12:43 p.m.). On
Messier's and Way's body cameras, you can then hear Rodriguez using the PA System to let
Bounds know that they were there to help him due to the fact that Bounds had made suicidal
statements earlier in the day (12:48 p.m. and 12:50 p.m.). On Messier's and Way's body
cameras, you can hear Dipre and Rodriguez knocking on Bounds' vessel, and on all four
cameras you can hear both men announcing "FWC. Sheriff's Office" (1:04 p.m.).
On Messier’s body camera you can hear the following statements leading up to the
On Cox’s body camera, it’s difficult to hear over the wind but you can hear, “Get
the fuck out of here” followed by “Get back. Get back.” (1:08:37 p.m.). A few seconds later
you can hear “Get down. Don’t do it. Get back. Get back.” The three gunshots can be heard
at approximately 1:08:49 p.m.
On all four body cameras can you hear the three gunshots (right before 1:09 p.m.).
Once back at the dock and while awaiting for Key West Rescue to arrive, Messier's and Cox's
body cameras capture Bounds making the following statement: "I wasn't going to set myself
on fire. I wasn't. I really wasn't. I just wanted you to leave me alone. I was scared." (1:16
p.m.)
MCSO Crime Scene Investigator John Underwood processed the houseboat and
collected two “BIC”-style lighters as well as a six-gallon gasoline container missing
approximately one gallon of gasoline. Dipre and Fricke’s clothes were also collected due to
having blood and gasoline on them.
Through reviewing Adam Bounds' phone records, Kempel discovered that Bounds
and an individual named Jennifer Cabarga had texted one another on 10/15/2019 (the day of
the incident) at the same time the officers were attempting to make contact with him. Bounds
specifically indicated in a text to Cabarga that "FWC is at my boat now." That text was at
12:41 pm. Bounds' phone records also show that he received three phone calls from Dipre's
cell phone at approximately 12:42 pm, 12:44 pm, and 12:50 pm.
Bounds did violate F.S.S. 806.01.1 and 777.04(1) (Attempted Arson) by willfully and
unlawfully attempting to light himself, Captain Dipre and/or his houseboat on fire, by
pouring gasoline over his head and letting it run off his body and onto the floor of the
It must be noted that the photos of the bullet holes, with numbered markers in the
curtain and in the sliding glass door are in way or form intended to indicate or suggest the
order in which the shots were fired. The numbers are meant only to show the bullet holes
themselves and to indicate their location and must not be misinterpreted to suggest the order
or sequence of the shots fired.
On 11/21/2019, that search warrant was uploaded into the Facebook website.
Hello,
Facebook is unable to fulfill your search warrant because it fails to include a direction for the
results of the search to be returned to the court, as required by state law. Please provide an
amended warrant so we can process your request. If you are aware of authority to the
contrary, please provide it for our review.
Thank you,
Law Enforcement Response Team
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********************************
Hello,
We are in receipt of your new legal process, and we are processing it in case number 4297859.
Thank you,
Law Enforcement Response Team
On the day of this incident, Special Agent Mid Quad from FDLE interviewed Dep. Thomas
Fricke, Dep. Rodriguez, Off. Marty Messier, and Off. Jonathan Hettel.
Thomas Fricke:
On 10/15/2019, he was riding with Dep. Rodriguez for the day. They were
dispatched to a call reference a suicidal subject on a boat. They met with Off. Glen Way and
Off. Marty Messier (FWC) at the dock by the Perry Hotel. They left the dock together on one
boat (Boat#1)and met Capt. Dave Dipre, Lt. Andy Cox, and Off. John Hettel (FWC), who
were on a second boat (Boat#2) and were already on the water and in the area of Mr. Bounds’
vessel. Way informed Fricke that in addition to Bounds making suicide threats, he also had
outstanding warrants. A decision was made for Rodriguez to use Dipre’s phone to try to
make contact with Bounds because of the fact that Bounds did not like FWC.
Rodriguez called Bounds two or three times, leaving voice messages each time.
Rodriguez’s messages were something to the effect of, “This is Freddy with MCSO. We’re
here to help you. We understand that you made suicidal statements.” At this point they were
in close proximity of Bounds’ vessel. Rodriguez then got onto the other FWC boat with
Dipre. Unknown who used the P.A. but it was used multiple times, but no response from
Bounds. Fricke also used binoculars to attempt to locate Bounds on his boat, but no response
or movement.
Rodriguez and Dipre boarded Bounds’ boat from the helm side or front of the
boat. Messier was covering them using a long gun. Rodriguez and Dipre were knocking on
Bounds’ door and saying, “This is MCSO. This is FWC. Open the door. Come out. We are
here to help you.” Still no sight of Bounds. Fricke was aware that Bounds’ phone was
“pinged” by MCSO , so they knew that at least his phone was on that boat. Dipre attempted,
but could not get the front door open on Bounds’ vessel. Way had some tools on his boat, so
Fricke took a couple of screwdrivers and boarded Bounds’ vessel and handed the tools to
Dipre. Fricke assisted Dipre in getting the front door open. Someone announced, “FWC.
MCSO. Come out with your hands up. We just need to talk to you.” Fricke then hears
screaming, “Get the fuck off my boat. I’ll blow us all up.”
There was a black curtain behind the door and Fricke pulled it to one side. Dipre
said, “Sir. Come out with your hands up.” Fricke said that they all could now smell gasoline.
Dipre said, “Put the lighter down. Put the lighter down.” Fricke heard Bounds say, “I’ll
blow us all the fuck. I don’t give a fuck.” Dipre then said, “Retreat. Retreat.” Fricke
dropped the curtain and he heard Dipre fire 2 shots. Fricke could see Bounds pouring
gasoline out of a red, 5 gallon gas can. He was pouring it on himself, the floor, splashing it
everywhere. From his view, Fricke did not see Bounds with the lighter. Fricke then assisted
with cuffing Bounds because Bounds was fighting them. Bounds was wearing shorts, no shirt.
Fricke and Dipre secured the crime scene as Bounds was being transported to shore.
Martin Messier:
Over the FWC radio, Messier heard Dipre call Way and advise of him that a
subject was on the phone with the Inspector General’s Office and this subject had made
comments to hurt himself. Specifically, this subject said he was going to jump out in front of
a bus. Dipre told both Messier and Way that they were going to respond to this subject’s
vessel. Messier was aware that this subject’s phone was “pinged” (unknown by whom) and it
came back to the area of the Cow Key Channel. Messier did not remember the name of the
Messier met Way at Stock Island Marina Village. Rodriguez and Fricke were
already there and all four left on one FWC boat, heading towards Cow Key Channel. They
spotted Bounds’ vessel, which had “4th Amendment” written on the side of it and had two
American flags. Messier said that he was familiar with this vessel. They met the other FWC
boat approximately 200 yards away from Bounds’ vessel. The other FWC boat was carrying
Dipre, Cox, and Hettell.
Dipre made the decision to approach Bounds’ vessel slowly. Knowing that Bounds had issues
with FWC, Rodriguez used the P.A. saying , “This is the MCSO. We understand that you
need some help. We are here to help you. Please come out to the back deck.” Messier said
that Rodriguez repeatedly made it clear, over the P.A., that they were there to assist and for
Bounds to exit his vessel.”
Dipre decided that they needed to do a welfare check on Bounds and make sure he
is ok because he had called the Inspector General and said he wanted to hurt himself or
maybe he had already hurt himself. Both FWC boats approached the starboard stern of
Bounds’ vessel.
Messier got onto the starboard stern of Bounds’ vessel and took cover. Messier had his long
gun out and his job was to provide cover for the entrance door of Bounds’ vessel. Dipre,
Rodriguez, and Fricke had also boarded Bounds’ vessel and Dipre was at the front door.
From Messier’s vantage point, he could not see Fricke or Rodriguez that well. The front door
was locked. Both agencies were announcing who they were and that they were there to help.
Someone said, “We understand you called the Inspector General’s Office. Come on out.”
Way gave a screwdriver to Dipre and Fricke and both officers were able to get the
front door open. AS soon as the front door opened, Messier heard Bounds screaming, “Get
the fuck out of here.” Messier saw that there was a black curtain in front of the door, which
blocked his view inside. Messier believes that Dipre moved the curtain to the side and
Messier could not see Bounds’ face, but saw part of his body and Bounds holding a 5 gallon
gasoline can high above his body and what appeared to be gasoline coming out. Messier
yelled, “He is soaking himself with gasoline” so everyone could hear.
Messier then heard Dipre say, “Put it down. Don’t do it. Put it down. Don’t do
it.” Messier then heard three rounds go off. Dipre was then inside the cabin, Bounds was on
the floor, and Fricke was cuffing him. Messier told Way to call EMS immediately. Bounds
was then moved onto one of the FWC boats and taken to shore. Messier heard Bounds say, “I
can’t believe you shot me. Loosen up the handcuffs.” Messier does not believe that he had
previous encounters with Bounds.
Jonathan Hettel:
Hettel stated that he was in charge of operating the FWC boat (850 Impact) that
he, Dipre, and Cox were on. They met up with the other FWC boat, which was occupied by
the 2 Deputies and both Way and Messier from FWC. They discussed the fact that they had a
possible suicidal person who, based off the phone “ping”, might be on the vessel they were
going to. They spoke about the comments that Bounds had made which were that he had
Hettel drove right up to Bounds’ vessel and Dipre and Rodriguez boarded the
vessel by use of the “floating dock.” Hettel then said he backed away and took a tactical
position. Hettel said that Dipre was banging for several minutes, trying to get Bounds’
attention, saying “Come out. We need to talk to you.” Hettel said that there was no
indication/movement/sound from Bounds so the possibility was that either he was not there or
he had already killed himself.
Hettel said that Dipre used a screwdriver to get the door open on Bounds’ vessel.
When the door opened, “All hell broke loose.” There was screaming. Hettel heard Dipre say,
“Show me your hands” and he heard Bounds say, “Get out of here. I’m going to kill you. I’m
going to kill everyone.” Lots of screaming back and forth and then Hettel heard 3 gunshots.
Hettel and Cox then drove back up to Bounds’ vessel and Cox boarded the vessel to assist.
Hettel saw that Bounds had been shot and was being put in handcuffs, so Hettel drove back to
shore with the intention of bringing EMS back to Bounds’ vessel.
Hettel never saw Bounds on the veseel. He only saw Dipre get the sliding glass
door open and then Dipre “draw” his weapon.
Hettel said that he had been in the courtroom before while Bounds was there and
Bounds was very hostile towards FWC. Hettel said that several months prior, he had done an
intel report so other officers were aware to use caution when approaching Bounds’ vessel.
Hettel said that the main reason that the officers went out to make contact with
Bounds was for a welfare check.
Freddy Rodriguez:
Rodriguez said that he was dispatched to Stock Island Marina to assist FWC with
a welfare check on a subject. Rodriguez was aware that this subject (Adam Bounds) made a
call to someone stating he was suicidal and wanted to kill himself. Rodriguez was also aware
that Bounds was supposed to be in court at 9am, but never showed. Rodriguez boarded the
FWC boat and met another FWC boat out on the water. Rodriguez said on his boat was Dep.
Fricke and two other FWC officers. On the other boat was Dipre and two other FWC
officers.
Once in the area of bounds’ vessel, Rodriguez used Dipre’s phone to attempt to
make contact with Bounds. Rodriguez left a voice mail stating that he was with the MCSO,
and he was there to help, because Bounds had asked for help early in the morning. Rodriguez
Rodriguez then used the P.A. to let Bounds know that he was with the MCSO and
was there with FWC and they were there because Bounds had asked for help earlier in the
morning; that they were there to assist him. Rodriguez reiterated this statement several times
over the P.A., but there was no response or movement from Bounds’ vessel. Rodriguez said
that all the windows on Bounds’ vessel were covered, so they could not see inside. Rodriguez
also used the P.A. to let Bounds know that he also had a warrant and they were there to arrest
him, but still there was no response from Bounds.
Dipre and Rodriguez then boarded Bounds’ vessel. Rodriguez took a position on
the “floating dock.” Rodriguez said that they announced themselves numerous times by
saying this is the MCSO…we are here to help. Please come out. Please unlock the door.
Dipre could not get the sliding glass door open on Bounds’ vessel. Dipre decided that they
needed to know if Bounds was alive or dead, so a decision was made to pry the door open.
Fricke then boarded Bounds’ vessel with a pry tool and handed it to Dipre. Dipre still could
not get the door open, so Fricke used the tool to pry the door from the bottom and the door
slid open. Rodriguez heard a voice from inside the cabin say, “I’m going to blow us all up.
You are trespassing on my boat.”
Rodriguez was behind Fricke and could see that there was a curtain, in front of the
door, blocking their view, so he instructed Fricke to pull the curtain to one side. Rodriguez
saw Dipre take his weapon out and order Bounds to drop the lighter and drop the gas can.
Rodriguez then heard 3 shots. Rodriguez then moved from the floating dock onto Bounds’
vessel. Rodriguez saw Bounds, inside the cabin, on the ground bleeding. The floor was
covered in gasoline and there was still gasoline actively pouring out of a huge gas can.
Rodriguez moved this gas can from the interior of the cabin to the outside. Rodriguez then
informed dispatch that they needed EMS to meet them at Coconut Mallory. Rodriguez was
on the FWC boat, which brought Bounds to shore for medical attention.
Rodriguez said that he had a short conversation with Bounds either while
transporting him to shore or once at land. Bounds said that no one would help him and
Rodriguez explained to him that they were there to help him. Rodriguez told Bounds that he
called someone that morning stating that he wanted to hurt himself. Bounds replied that he
called the District Attorney’s Office. Rodriguez told him that information was passed onto
the MCSO, so that was the reason they were there…to help him.
Officer Glen Way was interviewed by Special Agent Andrew Kemple from FDLE.
Glen Way:
Way stated that he was the boat operator the day of the incident. He was aware
that Bounds had called the FWC Inspector General’s Office; making threats to do harm to
himself. Way went to Stock Island Marina, which is where the FWC boat was docked, and
Way maneuvered the FWC boat so officers could safely board Bounds’ vessel.
Way described it as a patio, with plants, a generator, lobster traps, “knick knacks”, etc…Way
said that Dipre and Rodriguez initially boarded Bounds’ vessel. Then Fricke got onto
Bounds’ vessel to assist with opening the front door.
Way was not in a position to visually see Bounds. Way did see the front door slide
open and then heard yelling. “Get on the ground. He’s pouring gasoline on himself.” Way
also heard 3 gunshots.
After the gunshots, Messier handed Way his long gun, so it could be secured. Way
then handed a trauma kit and gloves to Messier and Way advised his dispatch that shots were
fired.
Within a few minutes, Bounds was placed onto Way’s boat. Bounds said, “I can’t
believe you shot me.” Way said that Bounds was screaming…apparently in pain. Way took
Bounds, Rodriguez, Cox, and Messier to meet EMS at shore. Dipre and Fricke stayed behind.
Andy Cox:
On the day of the incident, due to FWC radio traffic, Cox said he was aware that Bounds had
called the FWC Internal Affairs Office (FWC Attorney General) and had threatened to
commit suicide. Cox said that he was familiar with Bounds, due to prior Law Enforcement
encounters. Cox then went direct with I.A. and spoke to them to get the facts (approximately
11:45am). They informed Cox that they were on the phone with Bounds and he was
threatening suicide. Cox then relayed to them what information he knew about Bounds. Cox
mentioned a Law Enforcement Bulletin that FWC distributed about Bounds because Bounds
had previously used threatening language with the FWC officers when in court. Cox then
responded to City Marina in Key West, where he boarded a FWC boat with Hettel and Dipre.
They then headed out Cow Key Channel in the direction of where Bounds’ vessel
was anchored. Cox said he had just recently seen Bounds’ vessel east of the Cow Key
Channel. They met the other FWC vessel on the water, which had Way, Messier, Fricke, and
Rodriguez on it. Cox said they approached Bounds’ vessel from the port side and the other
FWC boat approached from the stern side.
Cox was not sure who used the FWC P.A., but it was used several times asking
Bounds to come out and speak with the officers, but there was no response. The P.A. was also
used to inform Bounds that he had an active warrant and to come out and speak with the
officers, but still no response. Cox also said that they drove all the way around the boat, but
because all the windows had coverings on them, they could not see inside.
Cox said that Dipre then decided that they needed to board Bounds’ vessel to do a
welfare check because Bounds had threatened to commit suicide. Dipre and one of the
deputies (Rodriguez) then boarded Bounds’ vessel and knocked on the front sliding glass door
several times announcing themselves; MCSO. FWC…come out. We need to speak with you.
Still there was no answer. Cox said they thought something was wrong, so they (Dipre and
Fricke) pried open the front door. Fricke was now also on Bounds’ vessel as well. The front
door opened, Fricke pulled the curtain back, and Dipre started yelling orders. Cox said he
was not sure of the exact words Dipre used, but it was something like, “Drop the lighter.”
Cox said Dipre said this several times and he believes Dipre ordered Bounds to “show his
hands” several times and then Dipre unholstered and fired his weapon 3 times.
Cox said that he could see Dipre and the two deputies from his vantage point, but
he could not see Bounds. Hettel then moved his boat forward and Cox boarded Bounds’
vessel. Once on the boat, Cox could smell the odor of gasoline and mentioned that the floor
was slippery from it. Cox also mentioned that gasoline was presently on his boots and pants.
Cox said they slid the gas can out and he moved it off to the side, as far away as he could.
Once cuffed, Cox assisted with moving Bounds out of the cabin, onto the deck of the boat,
searched him, and assisted with moving Bounds onto the FWC boat so he could be taken to
shore. Cox said that Bounds did make several statements, but he could not remember what
he said.
Way drove Bounds, Cox, Messier, and Rodriguez back to shore. Dipre and Fricke
stayed behind on Bounds’ vessel. Cox said he used his portable radio to inform his dispatch
that Bounds was conscious and breathing. Cox remembers Bounds say that he was having
trouble breathing, wanted to be left alone, and he wasn’t trying to light himself on fire, but
Cox is not sure when these statements were made.
Bounds:
Bounds stated that he called Internal Affairs and made a complaint. Bounds said
that he did not make any other comments, but "they" asked him if he wanted to hurt himself
and where he was at, but Bounds did not feel safe or comfortable telling them where he was
and he told them that he did not want to hurt himself. Bounds said that he vaguely
remembers the phone call, does not know how long he was on the phone with them, but after
that, the day was a blur to him. Bounds said that after the phone call, he stayed on his boat
and went to sleep.
Bounds said he awoke to "three cops with guns drawn and I'm getting shot." He
remembers one of the officers saying something about gas and that is all Bounds remembers.
Bounds said that he is not a violent person and he has never done anything in his past to
Kemple then asked Bounds if he ever heard the officers approaching his vessel and
Bounds replied "no". Bounds then said he is a heavy sleeper and he didn't hear them.
Bounds said he did not remember any officers trying to make contact with him by phone,
from outside the vessel, or by pounding on his door. Bounds said the first time he was aware
that someone was on his vessel was when his door was pried open. Bounds said he remembers
seeing 2 blue screwdrivers on the floor and when the door slid open, he did not know what
was going on. Bounds said when the door slid open, he got out of bed, walked up to the door,
but doesn't remember after that. Bounds did remember someone saying "he has gas" and
something about a lighter and then he was shot.
Kemple then asked Bounds if he had gas, but Bounds said he didn't remember.
Bounds said that he didn't have gas on him when he was brought to the hospital.
Bounds said he remembers after he was shot, he looked down and saw the hole in
his side. Bounds said that he doesn't remember being transported to shore or being
transported in a helicopter to Jackson Memorial. But he does remember the look "they" had
in their eyes and "they" tried to kill him.
Bounds did admit that he has made sad, depressing posts on Facebook.
Bounds then started talking about how he is constantly being harassed by FWC .
He said in the last few months, he has received 10 tickets in the mail from them and many of
the tickets have been dismissed in court, but others have turned into Misdemeanors. Because
of this recent harassment, he called to make a complaint. He said that he has been trying to
find help to get FWC off his back and be left alone.
Kemple asked Bounds if he knew Dirpre and Bounds said he did not and has never
had any contact with any FWC officers, except for court, because all his tickets have come in
the mail.
Kemple asked Bounds about his dog and Bounds said that he was afraid, so he sent
the dog to stay with his friends, but Bounds could not remember what day that was. Bounds
then said that he had a warrant, from missing a court date, and that was the reason he gave
the dog to his friends.
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12:51...I can hear someone on the other boat using the P.A. It is windy, but I hear
something to the effect of , "this is the Sheriff's Office. You have a warrant. Come out now".
Cox, Hettel, and Dipre are discussing options. Dipre is using binoculars, but cannot see inside
Bounds' vessel and he states he does not see any movement. Bounds' vessel is seen via the
body camera.
12:57...They meet with the other FWC boat to make a plan. It is windy and hard
to hear the conversation.
13:02...Dipre and Rodriguez board Bounds' vessel via the floating dock. As the
FWC boat pulls away, I can see Messier is now crouched down by the steering wheel of
Bounds' vessel and the other FWC vessel is up against the bow of Bounds' vessel.
13:04-13:05...I can hear someone saying multiple times that this is the Sheriff's
Office. Open up. FWC. We need to talk.
13:06-13:07...I can hear a discussion about a pry bar or screwdriver and can still
hear someone asking Bounds to come out and talk . I can see Bounds' vessel and Fricke get
off the other FWC vessel and onto Bounds'.
13:08...I hear Rodriguez, "Sheriff's Office. Sheriff's Office". I hear, "Get the fuck
out of hear" and another voice, "Get back. Get back". Another voice, "Get down. Don't do
it". Multiple persons...."Get back. Get back. Get back. Get down". "He's soaking
himself". Then 3 shots. Cox is telling Hettel to get him up there. Then there is a lot of
screaming. "Calll EMS". "Watch it. It's slippery". "Is the lighter secure? Are his hands
secure?" "Please help me". "Get him out in the open air. Make sure he doesn't have a
lighter."
13:10..."I thought you were going to kill us my friend. You had gas and a lighter".
13:10...I can see Bounds cuffed on the floor of his boat. The officers assisting him
in getting to his feet and putting him on one of the FWC boats.
13:12...Enroute back to shore. Bounds is on the floor of the FWC boat and Messier
has him secured.
13:14...At the dock. Bounds stating he can't breathe, talking about his kidneys,
asking to loosen a cuff
13:16.41...Bounds says "I wasn't going to set myself on fire. I wasn't. I really
wasn't. I wanted you to leave me alone. I was scared".
Hettel is driving one of the FWC boats so 12:51-12:54 is a view of the steering
wheel
12:53...Hettel discussing that Bounds said in court that "they" were out to get him
and that "they" want to shoot/kill his dog.
12:56..."If we knock on the door and he doesn't come out, I say we pepper spray."
"I don't have a problem with that." (Unk who speaking)
12:58...Dipre Discussing that they need to make contact with him because of
suicidal threats...possibility that he may already be dead
13:03...Hettel drives up to "4th Amedment" and Rodriguez and Dipre board the
vessel? Body camera does not show clear view of this
13:04...Can see Rodriguez and Dipre on Bounds' vessel near the front sliding glass
door
13:05.30...Can hear someone saying "Sheriff's Office. FWC. Come on. Let us
in." "We gotta talk"
13:06...Can hear someone saying "If we have to we can tow it to shore and get
some breaching tools." "I say break the window now."
The view continually changes from the steering wheel, to Cox on the front of the
boat with a long gun, and at times Bounds' vessel. Hettel has to continuously reposition the
boat, due to the current.
13:07.20...Can hear someone saying "Sheriff's Office. FWC. We need you to come
out. We need to talk to you." (Lots of wind in Hettel's mic)
13:08.43...Can hear multiple voices "Get down. Get back. Get down." (Still
difficult to hear because of wind noise)
13:09...Hettel drives up to Bounds' vessel and Cox gets on it. Can hear someone
saying, "He's got gasoline all over. He had a lighter." (Not sure what was exactly
said)
13:09...Can see the officers on Bounds' vessel, but cannot see Bounds
13:14.57...Can see Bounds handcuffed, fetal position, on floor of other FWC Boat
13:15.25...Bounds? says, "I can't breathe." And someone advises him that EMS is
on the way
13:17.03...Bounds says, "I can't breathe." (Bounds is still on the other FWC
Boat waiting for EMS)
13:20.35...EMS on scene and Hettel advising them that Bounds is covered in gas
13:23.40...View of EMS on dock....taking Bounds from the FWC Boat and moving
him onto the stretcher
13:23.57...Ken Fricke taking pictures of Bounds on the stretcher, using his cell
12:43.48...Can hear Rodriguez saying, "We are here to assist you in any way
possible. The Sheriff's Office is here for you. So, I am going to call you back in about 5
minutes after you listen to this message. CAll you back in about five." (Some is hard to
understand because of wind noise)
12:44.15...Can hear Rodriguez saying, "I left him a message. I told him I would
call him back in five."
12:45.06...Can hear Messier say, "Let Freddy talk to him on the P.A. if he don't
answer the phone." Someone responds, "The P.A. is next."
12:45.29...Someone says, "Let's move in a little closer where he can hear us better.
Let Freddy talk to him on the phone."
12:47.45...Someone says, "His back door looks like it's open. We're going to swing
around a little bit to see if we can get a better view of the back door."
12:49.30...Rodriguez on the P.A., "Adam. You spoke with someone earlier today.
Wanting some help. We are here to help. Adam, if you want to talk we are here to talk. Step
out on the deck for us please."
12:52.03...Rodriguez on the P.A.. "Adam. This is the Sheriff's Office and FWC.
You have a warrant for your arrest. You need to come out now. "
12:55.08...Messier says, "You need to throw fucking gas in there. That's what you
need to do. This is fucking horrible."
12:57.45...Discussing that the windows are blacked out and best options for
boarding the vessel.
13:03.20...Now have a view of the other FWC Boat and Rodriguez getting onto
Bounds' vessel. Messier also gets on Bounds' vessel, but from his position, can only see the
deck/generator on Bounds' vessel.
13:04.36...Someone says, "Are you trying to break the door down?" (Messier's
mic is picking up the sound of the water hitting the boat...hard to hear)
13:05.35...Can hear more knocking and someone saying, "Adam Bounds. We need
you to open up. Come on. Sheriff's Office. FWC. Come on. Listen."
13:06.32...Messier says, "You can break a window. That door...a pry bar will pop it
right open."
13:06.53...Discussing what tools they may have or do they need to call the Fire
Dept
13:07.28...More knocking and Dipre says, "Adam. If you can hear us, this is Capt.
Dipre with FWC. We need you to come out man. We need to talk to you."
13:09.13...Multiple voices, "Get down. Get back. Get back. Put your hands up
now. Don't move. I'll kill you right now. I'll shoot you right now." "Call Ems"
13:09.47...Messier says, "Is the lighter secure. Are his hands secure? We don't
have a lighter?"
13:10.15...Messier's camera has view of Bounds on the floor, cuffed, after he has
been shot.
13:10.55...Bounds says, "Somebody help me. I don't feel safe with you guys."
Someone replies, "I know you don't. I don't either."
13:11.25...Bounds being escorted onto the FWC Boat. Bounds says, "Please get me
to a hospital. Please." Rodriguez responds, "We're going there. That's where we are going
right now." Bounds says, "Please go. I hurt. Go fast."
13:14.25...Bounds says, "You almost killed a wounded man. So you did it for me.
Good job gentleman"
13:14.51...Bounds says, "Someone please help me. " Someone replies, "We got
help coming for you right now." Bounds says, "I can' breathe. Everything is on fire."
Someone replies, "Just lay still. Just lay still. EMS is almost here." Bounds says, "You guys
fucked me up good......I can't breathe. Ican't breathe." Someone replies, "Just lay still."
Bounds says, "You're in my kidneys. You got my kidneys damn it.......Can you unloosen that
cuff a little . I can't feel my hand. Please. Anything. Help me please. You guys are supposed
13:16.18...Someone says, "Marty..I didn't check his pockets for extra lighters and
stuff."
********* 13:16.37...Bounds says, "Please help me. Can you loosen that cuff a little . Please. "
Messier replies, "Stand by partner." Then Bounds says, "I wasn't going to set myself on fire.
I wasn't. I really wasn't. I just wanted you to leave me alone. I was scared.......my crotch is
on fire. Please..I can't breathe."
13:18.10...Bounds says, "Where is my help. You guys are not helping me."
Multiple voices reply, "They are coming. They are coming now. There is nothing we can do
for you right now except sit here. You smell like gas. He poured gas all over himself. "
13:18.25...Bounds says, "You broke into my boat." Rodriguez replies, "You called
me sir and said that you wanted to commit suicide. You said that you wanted to kill yourself."
Bounds says, "No I did not." Rodriguez replies, "We needed to make sure. We have it on
tape. We have it on tape. You were on a recorded line." Bounds replies, "I called the
Attorney General asking for help." Rodriguez replies, "We came to help. We wanted to
make sure you were ok and then we find you soaking gasoline with a lighter in your hand."
Bounds replies, "You broke into my boat. You violated my house." Rodriguez replies, "All
you had to do was come up to the door. That's what we were there for."
13:19.27...Bounds says, "Please help me." Someone replies that they are trying to
block as much of the sun as he can. Bounds says, "You see me die like this." Messier replies,
"You are not going to die buddy. You are going to be alright." Bounds complaining of the
cuffs and was advised that as soon as help gets there and they get the gasoline off of him.
13:20.17...Bounds says, "I can't breathe. I need oxygen please." Bounds is advised
that EMS is almost arrival
13:30...In the ambulance, someone asks if there is a way to vent the gas fumes
13:43...Trauma Star starts up and can only hear the helicopter after that
Powell Part 2:
Way is driving one of the FWC boats, so much of the view is the steering wheel
12:48...Rodriguez on the P.A. "Adam, this is the Sheriff's Office. Can you step out
on the deck for us please. Adam this is the Sheriff's Office. We are here to help. You said
you needed some assistance. This is Dep. Rodriguez with the Sheriff's Office. Please step out
on the deck please."
12:49...Rodriguez on the P.A. "Adam, you spoke with someone earlier today
wanting some help. We are here to help. Adam if you want to talk, we are here to talk. Step
out on the deck for us please.
12:51...Rodriguez on the P.A. "Adam, this is the Sheriff's Office and FWC. You
have a warrant for your arrest. You need to come out now."
13:07...Can hear someone still asking Adam to come out and talk
13:14...Back at dock
5/21/2020 14:03 SUPPLEMENT MIXON, LINDA ELIZABETH S150 S7875 5/21/2020 15:16
Status: APPROVED COLEMAN, DENNIS E 5/22/2020 11:15
Warrant was clerked with Felony office. The warrant was delivered to the Monroe County
Sheriffs Warrants Division.
Richard Ramsay
Sheriff of Monroe County
Pursuant to Chapter 939.01 of Florida Statues, the following summary of hours involved in
the investigation of defendant, Adam Bounds and in accordance with Chapter 939.01 of
Florida Statutes are presented to the Court to be entered in the judgment rendered against
the convicted person.
Total = $1,200
I certify that the hours stated and the itemized costs listed accurately reflect those costs
incurred in the investigation of this defendant, Adam Bounds, as cited in the listed case
number.
Richard Ramsay