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They'll Do Time For A Cause

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By KLINT LOWRY

Suncoast News

Published: March 11, 2009

PORT RICHEY - "Police Chief Behind Bars, Needs Help Making Bail."

Now that's the kind of banner headline reporters dream of.

Although technically accurate, the real story isn't quite that sensational, though it warrants public attention.

Police Chief David Brown and dozens of other local residents will do time from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

They will turn themselves in as part of the Muscular Dystrophy Association's annual lockup fundraiser. Each year, MDA sets up mock jails in communities across the country. Community and business leaders agree to be arrested.

"They actually send people out to your office," Brown said.

Premier Chauffeured Limousine will provide transportation.

Once the detainees are taken to the lockup, they are expected to pay $2,500 bail. Brown, like many others, has been asking for pledges from friends, family, colleagues and business sponsors.

If the inmates raise the money in advance, they can pay and be on their way. If not, they will be put in the makeshift jail to work the phones, calling people for pledges.

They will wear chain gang-style striped uniforms. When benefactors arrive to help with bail, souvenir mug shots of the inmates can be snapped.

Considering his day job, Brown isn't surprised he has several contributors lined up who have told him they plan to hold back to be sure they get to see him in the clink. Some have threatened to bribe the guards to keep him there longer than the customary one-hour sentence.

Not that Brown or his fellow inmates will be doing hard time. The jail will be at Catches Waterfront Grille, 7811 Bay View Ave., where the public will be able to see them in lockdown.

"I've heard they actually built a jail cell," Brown said.

Along with providing the space for the MDA posse to house the makeshift hoosegow, Catches will provide food for inmates - presumably something considerably better than bread and water.

Money raised through the lockup will stay in the area, going to nearby MDA clinics to help pay for things such as therapy, wheelchairs and stints at summer camp.

It's all fun and games - for an excellent cause, Brown said.

Those who would like to pledge money for Brown's bail may contact him through the Port Richey Police Department, (727) 816-1919. Visit Catches during the event to pledge money for the inmate of your choice.

To learn more about MDA or to make a direct donation, visit www.mda.org.

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