TikToker defends helping 'Lieutenant Dan' after controversial history revealed

A TikToker has defended his decision to share Lieutenant Dan's story online after the sailor's criminal past was uncovered.

Attention is currently on Florida as it reels from the impact of hurricanes Helene and Milton, which has impacted millions across the US state. However not everyone in the coastal cities of the Sunshine State followed evacuation orders, with various people going viral on social media as they documented their brave - or stupid, you decide - decision to stay behind and ride out the storm.

One of those individuals is 'Lieutenant Dan', with his decision not to evacuate from his 20ft sailboat in Tampa Bay capturing the attention of many.

Regular updates on Dan's - real name Joseph Malinowski - story have been shared online by TikToker Terrence Concannon, with the videos reaching the attention of millions around the world.

The story has captured the hearts of many, with donations to Concannon's fundraiser - which pledges to buy amputee Malinowski a new boat - passing its target of $40,000.

However Malinowski's newfound internet fame has led to his criminal past being uncovered. Various mugshots of Malinowski over the years have also surfaced online.

The 54-year-old was released from prison in 2022 after serving a year-long sentence for punching a police officer in the nose. His most recent charge came after he allegedly attempt to set a woman on fire after dousing her with gasoline.

The case has since been dropped by law enforcement.

Malinowski had also been offered a lucrative deal by streamer Adin Ross after his story went viral, with the internet personality offering him a new 100k boat and a deal with streaming platform Kick. This offer has since been rescinded after Malinowski's criminal past was uncovered.

However Concannon has since stood by the sailer, revealing in an interview with MailOnline that while he wasn't aware of Malinowski's past he doesn't regret helping him.

"He never mentioned anything about it. I had no idea about [the past] and I am not one to judge. All I saw was a guy needing help and I was willing to give it," the 23-year-old TikToker said, adding that he became concerned for Malinowski's safety after learning of his decision to stay in the harbour during Helene and Milton.

"That's when I started filming more and then it blew up," he said.

Malinowski has since responded to the reports of his criminal record, telling local news reporters: "I went to prison, I did jail time, but point blank God to my soul… I’m innocent of all the charges."