More officers to patrol Sunset Beach

TREASURE ISLAND - For some residents, the partying on Sunset Beach is turning Treasure Island into "trash island."

They have been complaining about the weekend parties with public intoxication, underage drinking and trashing the beach.

The residents demanded changes at the city council meeting Tuesday, and this weekend they will get them.

Treasure Island police say they will have more officers patrolling the beach this weekend. Police will be checking anyone who appears under age 30 if they are in possession of alcoholic beverages.

Additional officers will patrol the streets for people driving under the influence of alcohol, crosswalk compliance, proper lane use, and speeding.

Even though Treasure Island allows alcohol on the beach, underage drinking is against the law, police say. Here is how they plan to enforce the current laws:

People under 21 found in possession of alcohol will be charged.

People under 18 will also be charged, and will be detained until a parent can come for them, or they will be transferred to a juvenile holding facility for further action.

People found with glass containers on the beach face a minimum fine of $113.00.

Parking violations range from $30 to $250, and are strictly enforced. People who leave their vehicle blocking a driveway or an intersection will have their vehicle towed, police say.