Cape Coral, FL – July 30, 2025 — On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at approximately 4:14 PM, Cape Coral Police Officers responded to a reported burglary near SW 1st Place, Cape Coral, Florida. The homeowner reported seeing on his security camera a shirtless male in dark swim trunks attempting to untie and take his boat from the property’s boat lift. The homeowner was not home at the time and asked a neighbor to go check on his boat.
Upon arriving on scene, officers located and detained the individual, later identified as Stephen William Dudash (DOB 08/02/1972). Dudash claimed he was there to test drive the vessel after arranging a sale with the owner. However, further investigation revealed that Dudash did not have permission to be on the property or to access the boat.
Officers observed damage to the boat lift’s control box and noticed cut straps and the knife used to cut them. All physical evidence was documented and collected at the scene. The estimated cost of damages exceeded $1,100.
While being searched, Dudash admitted to possessing a glass pipe, which tested positive for meth. The pipe was collected as evidence.
The registered owner of the boat confirmed that Dudash did not have permission to enter his property or use the boat, and wished to press charges for the damage sustained.
Stephen William Dudash (DOB 08/02/1972) was arrested without incident and transported to the Lee County Jail on the following charges:
- Criminal Mischief over $1,000 (F.S.S 806.13)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (F.S.S 893.147)
The Cape Coral Police Department reminds residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
