Citizen Thief of the year

From the Fort Myers News-Press-

A Fort Myers Beach business owner who last year was named Citizen of the Year has been charged with dealing in stolen property.

William “Bill” Semmer, 60, the owner of Semmer Electric, is accused of paying cash for equipment stolen from local stores.

According to sheriff's reports:

Semmer bought three stolen power saws and several stolen drill bits worth $800. He was arrested Tuesday after a six-week investigation and booked into the Lee County Jail on a charge of dealing in stolen property. He was released on $5,000 bail.

Detectives said they found the power saws and drill bits in his garage. They said they also found other power tools in the garage and more charges may be filed if it is determined the equipment was stolen.

Semmer could not be reached for comment.

Semmer is one of the most respected community leaders on Fort Myers Beach, said D.J. Petruccelli, president of The Greater Fort Myers Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce.

“I’m shocked ... there has to be some explanation,” Petruccelli said.

One possible explanation is that Mr. Semmer was leading a double life. If the charges hold up, Semmer wouldn't be the first con artist to bamboozle acquaintances into thinking they were a person of virtue rather than a thief.

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