Arrested in Sanibel? All Lee County bookings process through the Lee County Jail. We connect you with licensed local bondsmen.
Sanibel has its own police department (SPD) serving this barrier island known for shelling and wildlife. All arrests transport across the Sanibel Causeway to the Lee County Jail at 2501 Ortiz Avenue in Fort Myers, about 30 minutes east. SPD operates from 800 Dunlop Road.
Every Sanibel arrest requires crossing the Sanibel Causeway ($6 toll) to reach the mainland. After Hurricane Ian destroyed the causeway in September 2022, the island was temporarily accessible only by boat. The causeway has been rebuilt, but storm-related construction delays can still extend transport times. The J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel is federal property where federal officers handle enforcement.
The J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge covers a large portion of Sanibel Island. Federal Fish and Wildlife officers patrol the refuge and enforce federal wildlife protection laws. Federal arrests within the refuge go through the federal court system, not Lee County state courts. Speeding on Wildlife Drive and disturbing wildlife are the most common refuge violations.
Hurricane Ian in September 2022 caused catastrophic damage to Sanibel. The island's rebuilding has changed enforcement patterns, with construction-related crimes, curfew violations during early recovery, and increased patrol activity. SPD has maintained a full force presence throughout the recovery. The Sanibel Causeway toll is now $6 per vehicle, adding cost to the transport process.
Captiva Island extends north of Sanibel and is also patrolled by SPD and LCSO. Captiva has no separate police force. The South Seas Island Resort on Captiva generates tourist-related enforcement. Arrests on Captiva require transport back through Sanibel and across the causeway to reach the Lee County Jail, adding additional time. The combined island geography means SPD covers approximately 25 miles of barrier island territory with limited access points.
Surety bonds (10% non-refundable premium) and cash bonds are accepted. Bonding agents must be registered with the Lee County Clerk of Court. Call (941) 477-6888 to reach a registered Lee County bondsman who can post at the facility.
All arrests in these cities are processed through the county jail. The booking and bail process described above applies to every one of them.
A licensed Lee County bondsman is standing by.