Amputee TikTok Star 'Lieutenant Dan' Arrested Amid Dockside Sewage Concerns: A Viral Sensation's Legal Struggles Unfold

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
19/10/2024 23h15

**Viral TikTok Amputee "Lieutenant Dan" Arrested for Trespassing Amidst Sewage Concerns**

Joseph Malinowski, a Florida amputee widely recognized as "Lieutenant Dan" on social media, has been arrested on charges related to his refusal to evacuate from a dockside park. The Tampa Police Department confirmed Malinowski's arrest to Fox News Digital, citing his failure to address serious public health concerns stemming from his unregistered boat.

The 54-year-old viral sensation was taken into custody at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Friday at Bayshore Linear Park and Dock. Authorities impounded Malinowski's vessel, reporting it lacked an accessible sewage disposal system, thus posing a potential health hazard. Despite receiving several warnings, he did not vacate the area, prompting law enforcement action.

Further complications surround Malinowski's legal status. He faces two outstanding warrants for failure to appear in court and a misdemeanor charge for trespassing after being warned to leave the park. His arrest inquiry lists him as unemployed, although he is popularly known online as a "TIK TOK STAR."

Malinowski's notoriety escalated recently when he declared his intention to ride out Hurricane Milton aboard his 20-foot boat, despite grave warnings from local authorities and Tampa’s mayor, Jane Castor. Although reports indicated he had been moved to a shelter before the storm, Malinowski continued to broadcast from his boat, asserting he never intended to leave.

Renowned TikToker Adin Ross briefly offered to sponsor Malinowski with a lucrative streaming deal and a new boat worth between $50,000 and $100,000. However, this offer was retracted upon discovering Malinowski's extensive criminal record, which includes charges for assaulting a police officer and allegedly attempting to set a woman on fire.

Undeterred by these developments, Malinowski announced his plans to stay on his boat for future hurricanes. His resolve remains firm despite the significant conflict over the boat’s ownership and damage caused by recent storms.

While Malinowski's fervent adventures have captured considerable online attention, his legal and public safety issues underscore a complex narrative that continues to unfold in Tampa Bay.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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