One bouncer’s shift turned into a chase across UF’s campus this weekend after police reported an Ocala man stole more than $1,000 in cover charges.
Gainesville Police arrested 21-year-old Robert Price Brannan on charges of grand theft, according to an arrest report.
Salty Dog Saloon bouncer Brandon Wright said he was putting a wristband on a bargoer at about 1:15 a.m. Saturday when Brannan walked up and swiped a bag with $1,205 inside. He had been escorted from the bar earlier after drinking too much.
Brannan ran across West University Avenue, and Wright followed him. While Brannan was crossing the road, a taxi hit him, and he rolled a few times over the car, Wright said. However, he got up and continued running.
Wright said he chased Brannan through the Murphree courtyard, where he took all the money out of his pockets and surrendered it to Wright.
Brannan then started running toward Keene-Flint Hall near Library West, where he hid in bushes. Officers arrested him there, Wright said.
Police booked Brannan into the Alachua County Jail Saturday. He was released on his own recognizance. He declined to comment about the incident.
The chase became the talk of the night among Wright’s co-workers.
“I’ve had to clean up throw-up and escort some people out, but nothing like this,” he said.
A version of this story ran on page 1 on 11/25/2013 under the headline "Man swipes Salty Dog cover money"
