INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — An unidentified man was undergoing a mental health evaluation after deputies said he made a fake “bomb” at his home last week to fight an eviction. The incident prompted the response of a bomb technician.
No injuries were reported, according to Indian River County sheriff’s officials.
The man – whose name was not released – posted a sign warning people not to approach the residence, sheriff’s officials said. The man was taken to Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital for an involuntary evaluation.
The incident unfolded Wednesday morning when two deputies went to serve the man final eviction papers at his home in the 800 block of 46th Avenue, west of 43rd Avenue. Deputies saw a black box with attached wires taped to the front porch pillar, sheriff’s officials said.
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office sent a bomb technician to the home. The technician determined the suspected “bomb” was fake, sheriff’s officials said.
Deputies were able to get the man to come to the front door, placed him in custody and took him to the hospital. Deputies still served the man the eviction, sheriff’s officials said.