Florida Man Arrested, Claims to Be 'George Costanza'

Suspect with active warrant refused to identify himself, citing the beloved "Seinfeld" character.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Police in Clearwater, Florida approached a 30-year-old transient with an active arrest warrant, and when asked his name, the man responded "George Costanza." The suspect refused to provide his real identity, even after being asked approximately four times while in custody, embodying the spirit of the iconic "Seinfeld" character known for his tendency to pretend to be someone he's not.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the enduring popularity and cultural impact of "Seinfeld," one of the greatest sitcoms of all time. The suspect's attempt to pass himself off as the beloved character George Costanza showcases how deeply embedded these characters are in the public consciousness, even decades after the show's finale.

The details

According to the arrest report, the man "matched the description of a subject with an active arrest warrant" and when asked his name, he responded with "George Costanza." The suspect continued to refuse to identify himself, even after being asked multiple times while in custody. Eventually, he was identified through facial recognition and transported to the county jail.

  • The incident occurred on February 12, 2026.

The players

George Costanza

A beloved character from the sitcom "Seinfeld," known for his tendency to pretend to be someone he's not, including a latex salesman, an architect, and an assistant to the traveling secretary for the New York Yankees.

30-year-old transient

The suspect who was approached by police in Clearwater, Florida and claimed to be the character George Costanza, despite having an active arrest warrant.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The jerk store called. They're running out of YOU!”

— George Costanza (Seinfeld)

What’s next

The suspect was eventually identified through facial recognition and transported to the county jail.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a testament to the enduring popularity of "Seinfeld" and its iconic characters, as even a suspect with an active warrant attempted to pass himself off as the beloved George Costanza. It highlights the show's lasting impact on popular culture and the public's deep connection to its memorable characters.