"I would like to encourage anyone with information regarding this case to call our office," said Sheriff Prendergast. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. During the operation, law enforcement officials posed undercover as either a 13 or 14-year-old girl or boy and exchanged online messages with these subjects. Once the hostage was safe, deputies ordered the suspect to show them his hands. Further investigation also revealed the other occupant in the vehicle, 36-year-old Danielle Marie Turney of Inverness, had an active Pasco County warrant. Pat received a Ribbon of Commendation for his quick action in preventing someone from self-harm. We will continue to target drug dealers in an ongoing effort to make our community the safest in Florida, said Sheriff Prendergast. They said there is no threat to the public. After initial contact with Munn reference the allegations of violating county ordinances, it was discovered that Munn was not in compliance with the size and capacity of the dogs kennels. Also, take the research that indicates that robbery victims who used guns in self-protection were significantly less likely to either be injured or lose their property than victims who used any other form of self-protection or who did nothing to resist and you may consider armed self-defense as your best protection. Twenty-eight reptiles (snakes, skinks, geckos, and monitor lizards) were also found to be kept in terrible conditions. Dustin Warlick (DOB 2/10/1988), Inverness, FL Travel to Seduce/Solicit Child in Sex Act: F.S.S. shirts to support this amazing cause and are encouraged to cheer on participants at either Publix locations or CCSOs operations building. The powder was field-tested and yielded a positive result for the presence of Fentanyl. Many of the most famous Florida serial killers can easily be found on any top ten or other form of serial killer list, including, but not limited to, list of serial killers in Florida and Florida serial killer list. Heres why felons stopped their violent assaults: The fact that a large percentage of incidents are not reported and these numbers can be even higher. The sheriff's office responded to reports of violent clashes outside of a Circle K convenience store on Sunday when deputies heard gunshots as they arrived on scene. Oct 24, 2017 at 12:47 pm. (Citrus County, FL) March 3, 2022, in the courtroom of the Honorable Judge Richard Ric Howard, a jury found 40-year-old James Touchton of Inverness guilty of Capital Sexual Battery on a Child Under 12 (six counts) and Domestic Battery by Strangulation (two counts). However, while trying to render first aid to the man, deputies noticed his trauma was inconsistent with a vehicle crash and discovered he had a gunshot wound. The young mom initially claimed that she had dropped her daughter off with a babysitter, and that when she came back later, both were gone. 790.27(1)(A) and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon F.S.S. in Beverly Hills, FL. At the conclusion of the interview further evidence was collected in an attempt to support the victims statements. Couey stated he did not have anything to do with the nine-year-old's disappearance and had moved to Georgia to find a job, only knowing about it from the television news. While he never reached that height of notoriety, he did. On August 24, 2007, a judge in Inverness convicted Couey for the kidnapping, sexual battery, and first degree murder of Lunsford, and sentenced him to death. In 1989, he was executed by electric chair in Florida State Prison. About the Citrus County Sheriffs Offices High Tech Crimes Unit: The High-Tech Crime Unit is a unit within the Criminal Investigations Division whose primary function is investigating child pornography on the internet. As soon as our team confirms the facts on what has transpired today, said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast, we will release more information. While the majority of his crimes were committed in the Pacific Northwest, his final spree of murders occurred in Florida. Lisa Nowak in 2006; Natalie Portman in the film Lucy in the Sky. 784.041(2)(A). (Citrus County, FL) Today, January 7, 2022, The Citrus County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) wishes to acknowledge the many accomplishments of Deputy Sheriff Thomas Pat Alford as he retires with 30 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Citrus County. Jose Joaquin Hernandez (DOB 6-10-64) was arrested and charged in accordance with Florida Statute 828.122 (3) (d), Fighting or baiting animals and promoting, staging, advertising, or charging any admission fee to a fight or baiting between two or more animals. Bond set at $5,000. Recent Arrest. The suspect, later identified as 46-years-old Bryan Thomas Otto of Dunnellon (DOB 10/19/1975), was pronounced deceased on scene. 572 N Citrus Avenue, Crystal River, FL 34428 +1(352)794-6367 FireFlex Beauty Supply By 5 p.m. Friday, this outstanding effort resulted in the arrests of the following 20 suspects in Citrus County: Even though National Domestic Violence Awareness Month is ending, our fight against domestic violence is still ongoing. Touchton was then sentenced to six consecutive life sentences for Capital Sexual Battery and two consecutive five-year sentences for Domestic Battery. Eric Paul Clemente, 33, Floral City, arrested Sept. 19 for felony burglary of unoccupied residence and criminal mischief ($200 or less). Earlier that day, the CCSO was contacted by a concerned citizen in reference to possible sexual abuse of a child. Anyone with information is asked to call SW FL Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS/1-800-780 . An initial. Total bond set at $1,178.00. Thanks to his dapper good looks, charisma, and shockingly high body count. Megan Thersea Stergios Megan Thersea Stergios, 29, Beverly Hills, arrested May 18 for two counts of failure to appear. The Citrus County Sheriffs Office remains steadfast in its mission to make our community safe and protect our most vulnerable citizens, said Sheriff Mike Prendergast. (Citrus County, FL) Today, six Citrus County Sheriffs Office professionals graduated from Saint Leo Universitys Command Officer Management Program. CCSO has to comply with numerous standards in order to receive accredited status. If you hear or see something, SAY IT HERE with Crime Stoppers! Total bondset at none, due to domestic violence related crime. Over a million dollars worth of cocaine has been taken off the streets as a result of this investigation. Jessica Marie Lunsford (October 6, 1995 February 27, 2005) was an American nine-year-old girl from Homosassa, Florida, who was murdered in February 2005. All throughout itshistory, Florida saw more than its fair share of Florida killers. Upon a thorough evaluation of the forensic evidence and additional investigative work by CCSO detectives, a warrant was secured for the arrest of Johnson-Cabrera, a former girlfriend of the victim. Citrus County Sheriff. Citrus County Animal Control and CCSOs Community Crimes Unit detectives responded to assist with the investigation. 847.0135(4)(a), Seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a child to engage in any illegal act F.S.S. This conduct will not be tolerated in Citrus County, and the SVU detectives will work tirelessly to bring justice to these young victims.. Citrus County Sheriffs Office deputies are trained to respond appropriately to any threat they come in contact with, said Sheriff Prendergast. During this investigation, Houston had remained in custody at the Citrus County Detention Facility for his previous charges. Total bond set at none, due to domestic violence related crime. Daniel Redman was shot by deputies during a hostage situation and has been in our custody while receiving medical treatment. He was then sentenced to 35 years incarceration with the Florida Department of Corrections, lifetime Sexual Offender Probation, and will be required to register as a Sexual Predator. Her sensational trial featuring her defenses scorched-earth tactics against her family was watched by around 40 million viewers. After securing the residence and individuals on scene, officials proceeded with the execution of the lawful search warrant. During her sworn law enforcement career, Deputy Spencer has been assigned to the Judicial and Juvenile Services Division working in both the Court Services and Civil Units. Her mother, Cindy, called 911 to report her granddaughter missing. Guevara manipulated the young victims in this case and then took advantage of them,said Sheriff Mike Prendergast. We are grateful to Detective Cornell for his unwavering commitment in solving some of the most atrocious crimes in our county, said Sheriff Prendergast. This program ensures the CCSO team has the best training, knowledge, and resources when responding to a report of a missing or exploited child.. He then kidnapped his youngest and final victim, 12-year-old Kimberly Leach, from her Lake City school and murdered her. To get ready for "Floribama Murders," you can read up on the most infamous cases in Sunshine State history below. Total bond set at $137,000. University of Florida students were turning up dead fatally stabbed to death, sometimes raped and mutilated. If you have any information about stolen property or any other crime in our county, we encourage you to contact us as 352-249-2790 or by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-888-ANY-TIPS to remain anonymous. Your email address will not be published. Jamie Mullen (DOB 11/1/1976), Floral City, FL- Failure to Pay Child Support. One of the dogs, now in the care of the Iowa Animal Rescue League, had a leg that was improperly amputated. Ron DeSantis said after signing his bill into law last week to increase the penalties for those who illegally sell and distribute opioids in our state, Floridians of all walks of life have witnessed the destruction caused by the opioid epidemic across our state. Last year our county had 377 reported drug overdoses with 81 deaths a 47% increase from the year prior. Sign up forOxygen Insiderfor all the best true crime content. Total bond set at $2,178.00. Detective Richey and Sergeant Holloway . Marshals Service for their teamwork, which resulted in the resounding success of this operation. (Citrus County, FL) The Citrus County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) Training Section coordinated a training session with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to facilitate a 16-hour Single Officer Response to Active Threat and Shooter Incident training scenario in preparation for the upcoming school year. Gainesville Police Department, During the summer of 1990, the college town of Gainesville was on edge. His 20-years of commitment and selfless service to our community is a testament to the dedicated professionals that make up the Citrus County Sheriffs Office. (Citrus County, FL) Today, detectives from the Citrus County Sheriffs Office Tactical Impact Unit (TIU) executed a search warrant at 6959 North Charles Terrace in Hernando, FL. (Citrus County, FL)February 22, 2022, 25-year-old Shane Harrison Cohen was arrested for Aggravated Child Abuse in reference to injuries he inflicted on a 2-year-old child who was in his care. Detectives from CCSOs Tactical Impact Unit worked in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives gathering evidence that led to the issuance and execution of this narcotics search warrant. As is common practice with deputy involved shootings, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) responded and is conducting an independent investigation into the incident. But to willingly arrange to meet up with a child to carry out these sickening acts makes them very real and very dangerous. CCSO deputies and detectives promptly responded to the scene to investigate. On December 10th, 2020, Judge Howard sentenced 28-year-old Emery Whitt to 30 years in prison for the 2017 murder of Ryan McClellan. The curriculum the academy offers has been certified by the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts (IALEIA), an organization that represents analytical personnel in law enforcement and develops international qualification and competency standards, setting the foundation for a professional career path in intelligence analysis. Total bond set at $4,500.00. 847.0138(2), Travel to Seduce/Solicit Child in Sex Act: F.S.S. After successfully completing the academy, Deputy Spencer was officially sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff on September 1, 2001. Detective Snedeker recalled a vehicle matching the description being parked at a local motel in Homosassa. 741.29(6). Several law enforcement and investigating agencies provide reports and statistics on their websites if you would like to know more about the number of murders in Florida by year. I hope you get raped, scumbags of America, a visibly upset Wuornos shouted when she was convicted. There were also two dogs on the property with inadequate food, water, and shelter that were seized by CCSO Animal Control. Thanks to his dapper good looks, charisma, and shockingly high body count, Ted Bundy, whos linked to the murders of at least 36 women, is perhaps the most famous serial killer in America. In what has proven to be a terrifying night for our community, the immediate actions of our deputies saved other victims from further terror caused by this convicted felon, stated Sheriff Prendergast. The deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave which is standard procedure. Philip Tompkins, Communications Quality Assurance & Training Coordinator, completed comprehensive training for the program. (Citrus County, FL) Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) officials say a suspected bank robber is off the streets and there is no longer a threat to public safety. (Citrus County, FL) On September 14, 2022, the Citrus County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) arrested detention guard candidate, 38-year-old Shannon Marie Morgan of Inverness, at the Citrus County Detention Facility. When Cohen was dropping the victim off at daycare in the morning, a staff member observed Cohen acting strange. Deputies gave verbal commands for the suspect to release the hostage, which he eventually complied with. Tampa police will hold a community forum on Thursday, March 2, at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center2200 N Oregon Ave, Tampa, FL, 33607from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to talk about violent crime and . (Citrus County, FL) Today, we celebrate the well-deserved retirement of Citrus County Sheriffs Office Deputy Nancy Suto, who is officially hanging up her duty belt after three decades. Another resource that provides information regarding the number of unsolved homicides in each state is Project: Cold Case, which has not only provided a detailed database of many cold cases from all over the country, but also shares statistics about the many cases in the United States. Our office works closely with our partners at CoreCivic, and we want to send a clear message that illicit drugs have no place in our community and absolutely no place in our detention facility.. Drug users steal to pay for their addictions; their dependence tarnishes relationships with loved ones and can even result in their death by means of overdose. Detective Tony Ricci with the CCSO Special Victims Unit (SVU) was assigned this case and immediately began an investigation. She was taken into custody in Homosassa and booked. In this age of technology, it baffles and disgusts me that individuals will still seek out to harm animals for their pure entertainment, said Lora Peckham, CCSO Animal Control Unit Supervisor. He instead buried her alive as he decided he could do nothing else with the girl. Detectives were able to serve arrest warrants on two individuals: Christopher Eugene Smith, 33 years old, from Dunnellon and Sara Atwood, 24 years old, from Inverness. According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, more than 10 million adults experience domestic violence annually in the United States. A copy of the standards manual is available on the CFA website at www.flaccreditation.org under the standards tab. As the investigation progressed, Miranda claimed ownership of nine roosters for fighting. Members of TIU, CCDs, and K9 Deputy Elias conducted a traffic stop in the motel parking lot. Crime Map for Citrus County, FL Crime Map Trends Analytics Cold Cases Missing Persons Daily Archive Burglary 11/30/2022 3:44 AM LECANTO HWY Burglary 11/29/2022 5:56 PM 2ND CT Theft 11/29/2022 3:41 PM HIGH ACRES STREET Vandalism 11/29/2022 2:32 PM GULF TO LAKE HWY Burglary 11/29/2022 1:22 PM U S HIGHWAY 41 Other 08/13/2021 6:34 AM 123 SESAME ST How to Improve Your Concealed Carry Reaction with a 35 Card. MARION COUNTY, Fla. A Marion County man is accused of shooting and killing a former Citrus County deputy who had a retirement job filling propane tanks . Verification by the team that an agency meets the Commissions standards is part of a voluntary process to gain or maintain accreditation--a highly prized recognition of professional excellence. Over two weeks later, his head was found in a Florida canal, Time Magazine reported in 2016. Also included in these lists are the many unsolved murders in Tallahassee, Florida, which include the 1974 murder of James Norris, the 2009 murder of Lenoris Rains, the 1957 murder of Dorothy Thomas, the 2005 murder of Tony Pierrelouis, and the 1987 murder of Donald Williams, among many others. "This case is a landmark case for us here in Citrus County, said Sheriff Prendergast.