Resort: Brawl video doesn’t tell the whole story

One Southwest Florida resort said a violent video on the beach does not tell the whole story, pointing out it has been edited.

In the video, a security guard at the Lani Kai on Fort Myers Beach was caught on camera punching a spring breaker on the beach until blood streamed down his face.

But, here’s what led up to it. A manager on duty said security guards responded to a fight started to walk away. Then, out of nowhere, a spring breaker came up from behind and blind-sided a security guard.

“It was just a basic instinct,” said Michael Clyne, the manager on duty. “He lashed out without thinking, which you can see in the video. He just suddenly stops and they let the guy up and let him walk away.”

The resort said most of their security, including the guard who is in the video, are licensed. To obtain the license, they must go through 40 hours of training.

“We can’t just let people have a free for all in the sand or else some is going to get hurt or an innocent bystander is going to get hurt,” Clyne said. “That’s not good for anybody.”

The Lani Kai said the security guard would not be back at work until management evaluates whether he handled the situation correctly. The establishment said it doubles its year-round staff during this busy time to keep people safe.

Regardless, some vacationers said it could have been handled differently.

“I respect security — it’s a thankless job,” said Ash Edquard, a vacationer. “Wrestle him down, restrain him. That way put your weight on him. Do what you have to do, but without blows, without striking.”

“That looked terrible and awful,” said Morgan Carey, who is on spring break visiting. “I wouldn’t wish that upon anyone.”