murders in citrus county florida murders in citrus county florida

Bond $2,500. During the initial investigation, detectives identified the suspect as Daniel Redman. [5] Three days after he abducted her, Couey tricked Jessica into getting into two garbage bags by saying he was going to "take her home". William Gonsisko, 59, was charged with three counts of attempted murder. (Citrus County, FL) On October 20, 2022, the Citrus County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) arrested 30-year-old John Dylan Gromling of Beverly Hills for first-degree felony murder as a result of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance (fentanyl) which resulted in the overdose death of 53-year-old Bruce William Payne of Inverness. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. People who live in Citrus County generally consider the north part of the county to be the safest for this type of crime. We at the National Center would like to express our sincere gratitude and congratulations to the Citrus County Sheriffs Office for their diligence and commitment to children.. At the conclusion of the interview further evidence was collected in an attempt to support the victims statements. As soon as our team confirms the facts on what has transpired today, said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast, we will release more information. Thank you to our citizens who contact us to investigate these types of nuisances because you are the eyes and ears helping us put criminals behind bars.. 847.0138(2), Attempted Lewd and Lascivious Molestation: F.S.S. John and Reve Walsh of Hollywood, Fla., along with a photo of their son Adam, who was taken from a store in Hollywood several months ago, appear before a House Judiciary subcommittee on Missing Children on Capitol Hill in Washington on Nov. 18, 1981. Gainesville Rippers String Of Coed Killings, Photo: While citizens cannot join in on the run, they are still able to purchase the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run (L.E.T.R.) [12] "Jessica's Law" refers to similar reform acts initiated by other states. CCSO deputies and detectives promptly responded to the scene to investigate. OToole eventually recanted his confession. Shamy Tommie (DOB 7/23/1985), Crystal River, FL- Domestic Battery F.S.S. They said they made contact with an injured 50-year-old woman inside the home. 572 N Citrus Avenue, Crystal River, FL 34428 +1(352)794-6367 FireFlex Beauty Supply The coroner ruled that death would have happened even in best circumstances within 23 minutes from lack of oxygen. According to the publicly released autopsy reports, Lunsford had poked two fingers through the bags before suffocating to death, and the fingers had skeletonized. 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. Through these collaborations, we fiercely prepare ourselves to defeat threats and remove any potential hazard that may endanger our students and schools.. Allowing a negative interaction with another motorist to escalate to Road Rage puts everyone in jeopardy and demonstrates a reckless disregard for other motorists and passengers.. Arnold was later transported to Citrus County to await trial, where he was held until his sentencing yesterday. CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. - After Citrus County deputies receiving a call for a welfare check, they said they found the body of a Crystal River man. Detectives also observed evidence that tied Dlugos to at least one burglary scene. Deputies gave verbal commands for the suspect to release the hostage, which he eventually complied with. Thank you to the FDLE instructors who came to Citrus County to provide this imperative course to our SRDs, and the School Districts participation of its Guardians, along with the furnishing of a school venue, said Sheriff Prendergast. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has published crime reports from 1995-2011 that indicate violent crimes in our county. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3G41J870vz8, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piBSPyUTfPk, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ippon1_F88, 34% of felons were scared off, shot at, wounded, or captured by an armed victim, Even if they werent one of the 34% that werent directly hurt, 69% knew at least one other criminal who had also experienced the above, Another 34% of felons often thought during the planning of a crime that they either often or regularly worried that they might get shot at by the victim, 57% of felons agreed with the above statements and statistics. POLK COUNTY, Fla. A 19-year-old man has been charged in connection with a murder after he posted a song about the slaying, according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office. Soon he was caught on tape trying to hire a hitman (in reality an undercover agent) to kill Baskin, and was arrested in Gulf Breeze, Florida. 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. Detective Roscoe Watts, with the CCSO Major Crimes Unit (MCU), was contacted and immediately began an investigation. "I would like to encourage anyone with information regarding this case to call our office," said Sheriff Prendergast. whos linked to the murders of at least 36 women, is perhaps the most famous serial killer in America. BLOG; CATEGORIES. Some were confined in small kennels with multiple other dogs and no access to food or water. While this can never undo the harm done to this victim, I hope they will find solace in knowing Touchton will spend the rest of his life in prison.. Exotic (whose legal name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage) owned the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park in Oklahoma, a home to a number of big cats. (Citrus County, FL) Citrus Abuse Shelter Association (CASA) issued a calling to the community to step-it-up for survivors of domestic violence during the month of October. They said there is no threat to the public. Florida -- At approximately 9:18 p.m. on Wednesday, February 6, 2019, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) arrested 41-year-old Kenneth Slanker of Inverness, Florida. While failing to comply with verbal commands, the suspect retrieved a weapon, leaving the deputies with no choice but to deploy deadly force to stop the threat. HERNANDO, Fla. - The Citrus County Sheriff's Office is investigating a suspicious death as a possible homicide after a man was found dead in a pickup truck in the woods early Thursday morning. The total value of items stolen was nearly $13,000. Behind the area were several freshly dug holes containing deceased roosters with artificial fighting spurs still affixed to their legs. , an astronaut who drove about 900 miles to confront and allegedly kidnap a romantic rival, fascinated the public. Once the Commissions assessors complete their review of the agency, they report to the full Commission, which then determines if the agency is to receive accredited or reaccredited status - accreditation is valid for three years. (Citrus County, FL) As part of our vision to make Citrus County the safest community in Florida, the Citrus County Sheriffs Office announces its membership renewal in the Missing Kids Readiness Program. Deputy Spencer began her 32-year career with CCSO on May 7, 1990, as a Communications Officer. (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. Their initial investigation revealed that Jonathan had contacted Dean for illicit narcotics, which she provided him on numerous occasions. 800.04(5)(a), and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device: F.S.S 934.215. Aggravated assault. Dawn McDonald (DOB 5/30/1969), Lecanto, FL- Violation of Pretrial Release Terms F.S.S. In 1989, he was executed by electric chair in Florida State Prison. Project: Cold Case, as well as many other local, county, and state law enforcement and investigating agencies have lists of unsolved homicides and unsolved missing persons cases listed on their websites. Law enforcement officials from seven Florida counties, who make up the 23rd and 24th cohorts of Saint Leo Universitys Command Officer Management Program, received their diplomas earlier today. The two became embroiled in an intense feud, with Exotic, a larger-than-life figure, even making music videos where he accused Baskin of killing her first husband. FOX 13 News CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. - After Citrus County deputies receiving a call for a welfare check, they said they found the body of a Crystal River man. HERNANDO, Fla. - The Citrus County Sheriffs Office is investigating a suspicious death as a possible homicide after a man was found dead in a pickup truck in the woods early Thursday morning. Exotic lost the suit and soon owed Baskin a lot of money. Without a doubt, the most famous Florida serial killers include Danny Rolling, Ted Bundy, David Alan Gore, Gerard Schaefer, also known as The Killer Cop, Aileen Wuornos, Bobby Joe Long, and The Flat-Tire Murderer, who has remained unidentified since at least 1975. 172.105.99.84 We dont mean to scare you, but here in Citrus County alone, the statistics for violent crime indicate that our fair county is not free from the threats of violent criminals. Cornelius was challenged with hands-on training, structured coursework, and assessments, expanding her abilities to recognize evolving criminal trends and threats and how to apply that knowledge into making actionable intelligence products. We will not sit idly by; we will take a steadfast approach and stop the power and control these individuals have over their victims. In total, ten arrests were made as a result of this operation. Based on the results of this investigation, a warrant was issued for Arnolds arrest for the charge of Sexual Battery on a Child Under 12. The assessment team is composed of assessors from similar agencies. One inmate is dead and another inmate has been charged with murder following an altercation at the Citrus County Detention Facility. Tallahassee is home to more than 197,900 people. They work closely with other units within the Bureau of Special Investigations as well as local, state, and federal authorities. Getty; Fox Searchlight, Very few humans have ventured into space. We encourage all citizens to use this tool so they will remain anonymous and possibly eligible for a cash reward when reporting a crime. Subsequently, officials deployed spikes strips, which deflated the suspects tires. 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. They also know just how easy it is to gain access to your children and exploit them through the internet. Another predator has been removed from society due to the amazing work by CCSO detectives, the Child Protection Team, and the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. University of Florida students were turning up dead fatally stabbed to death, sometimes raped and mutilated. Most, if not all, of the unsolved murders in Florida can be found organized by law enforcement and investigating agencies on the Florida Department of Law Enforcements unsolved cases website, as well as many additional local and county law enforcement websites. Tallahassee, Floridas capital, is also one of the states largest cities. While the majority of his crimes were committed in the Pacific Northwest, his final spree of murders occurred in Florida. Total bondset at none, due to domestic violence related crime. On Monday, deputies responded to a home on North Andri Drive in Crystal River. He then set up a campsite near the University of Florida and murdered five students in a shockingly brutal manner, stabbing them repeatedly and cutting the nipples off two of the women. The dark underbelly to life in Florida is on full display in Floribama Murders,airingSaturday, January 7 at 9/8con Oxygen, which dives into chilling and bizarre crimes across the state. Deputies found the man while responding to a reported vehicle crash off North Alabaster Dr. and East Dearborn Drive in Hernando. CCSO has to comply with numerous standards in order to receive accredited status. On Monday, deputies responded to a home on North Andri Drive in Crystal River. 741.29(6). Click to reveal Compared to 2014 crime figures for the county, these represent 22.1% and 11.7% dip in violent crime rate and property crime rate respectively. Eventually, the relay came to be known as the Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run. A Homosassa couple was found dead Saturday morning inside a house, an incident Citrus County Sheriff's officials are calling a murder-suicide. Total bond set at none. On Tuesday, May 10th, detectives found the break they were looking for. Your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Hernando is 1 in 580 and property crime is 1 in 84. . This region is policed by CITRUS COUNTY. Earlier that day, the CCSO was contacted by a concerned citizen in reference to possible sexual abuse of a child. I am extremely proud of the teamwork from the various law enforcement agencies that went into making these arrests possible and for knowing that thanks to their dedication, weve stopped these sexual predators from preying on children in our county and our surrounding counties.. (Arrested by the USMS FCFTF). At the time of his arrest, Gromling was already in custody at the Citrus County Detention Facility for drug related charges, About the Citrus County Sheriffs Offices Tactical Impact Unit: The Tactical Impact Unit responsibilities include narcotics investigations, street[1]level reverse stings, regular checks for narcotics in schools and traffic interdiction. During this interview, it was determined numerous instances of sexual abuse had taken place at a residence located in Crystal River, Florida, as well as at multiple other locations throughout the state. If you know of anyone who may be dealing in illegal narcotics or know of someone struggling with addiction, call our non-emergency line at 352-249-2790 to report the criminal activity, or to speak with a member of our Behavioral Health Unit for assistance. 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 April 2015, he began his service as a TIU Detective. To learn more about NCMEC and the Missing Kids Readiness Program, go to: https://www.missingkids.org/education/training/mkrp. The Law Enforcement Torch Run has long been the largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for the Special Olympics program. It is alleged that Couey had Jessica Lunsford alive in the trailer while Citrus County officials visited the trailer, that police dogs indicated Jessica was being held in the direction of the trailer and were ignored, that Citrus County officials actively pursued Mark Lunsford's father as their prime suspect while evidence pointed elsewhere, and that had Citrus County officials followed up on an outstanding warrant issued by Georgia, that Citrus County officials could have entered Couey's residence and possibly saved the child. (Citrus County, FL) Yesterday, 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). After securing the residence and both individuals on scene, detectives proceeded with the execution of the lawful search warrant. Deputies say 62-year-old Michael Ball was arrested in . To learn more about what you can do to defend your family, contact us today for information on a Citrus County concealed weapons permit class. On November 17, 2021, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) was contacted in reference to a physical disturbance near the Family Dollar in Citrus Springs. Assessors will be on site from August 2nd through August 4th. If youre curious to know more about the statisticsregarding crimesin Florida, several law enforcement organizations publish yearly reportson their websites that detail the crimes in the state. "This case is a landmark case for us here in Citrus County, said Sheriff Prendergast. Picture the state of Florida and all it has to offer the gorgeous beaches, the near-constant sunshine, the family fun magic of Walt Disney World the bizarre and jaw-dropping crimes? She claimed she had been raped by the first victim, Richard Mallory, and killed him in self-defense. Deputies began searching for the suspect with the assistance of a K-9 unit. Get an all-access pass to never-before-seen content, free digital evidence kits, and much more! In response to this calling, the Citrus County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) began to put a plan in place. As a result of this exam, the victims injuries were determined to be consistent with abuse. The following individuals were also arrested and charged in accordance with Florida Statute 828.122 (3) (h), Fighting or baiting animals and/or attending the fighting or baiting of animals: Carlos Rodriguez Cortes (DOB 3-7-50), of Orlando, FL. Additionally, during our search efforts, we discovered other individuals with active warrants or committing other crimes that we just couldnt pass up! 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 culprit? Every year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation publishes a Uniform Crime Report that details the crimes, crime rates, and crime locations in each state, county, and city, including Florida. On August 11, 2007, a jury overseeing the Lunsford case voted 10-2 that Couey be eligible for the death sentence. On March 14, Couey's half-sister Dorothy Dixon gave permission to police to search her trailer at West Snowbird Court in Homosassa. On July 28, 2022, the Citrus County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) responded to a motor vehicle crash that occurred near the 8000 block of North Suncoast Boulevard in Crystal River. Mugshot.com, known as best search engine for Arrest Records, True crime stories and Criminal Records, Official Records and booking photographs. Upon arrival, deputies located the deceased, identified as Bruce Payne, in a shed on the property. During separate interviews throughout this investigation, several juvenile victims disclosed sexual activity with Guevara at her residence in Inverness. Serial killers are seemingly almost always male, which is why. US States (36975K) Current Events (51K) Celebrity (272) Exonerated (117) Favorites (421) FBI . Commencing on Thursday afternoon, detectives from our Behavioral Health Unit, Tactical Impact Unit, Community Crimes Unit, Aviation and K9 Unit began searching for subjects with outstanding warrants across Citrus County. Responding deputies were provided evidence supporting these allegations. Predators like Geller are the reason the detectives of the Special Victims Unit are an essential part of the Citrus County Sheriffs Office and our mission to keep this community safe. The panel decided to indict Hunter on a charge of first-degree murder. Our united front in the fight against illegal narcotics serves as a reminder to those dealing drugs in our communities that we will find you, and when we do, youll be in cuffs.. After approximately three weeks of intense searching for her around the area of her home, John Evander Couey was arrested in Savannah, Georgia, for an outstanding warrant of cannabis possession, but was released after questioning because it was only a local warrant. (Citrus County, FL) On March 25, 2022, 20-year-old Donovan Wayne Cole of Polk City, Florida, was arrested on a warrant for the charge of Lewd and Lascivious Battery in reference to an incident that occurred on January 28, 2022 in Inverness, Florida. annual societal costs are estimated at $740 billion in overall healthcare spending as well as lost productivity and crime. Both the white powder and bill were collected for evidence. During this training, SRDs are taught the mental and technical aspects of a single-officer response to an active assailant, including: It is vital when different entities respond to a critical incident, such as the Sheriffs Office, Fire Rescue/EMS, and school Guardians, that there is continuity in the deployment efforts to not only understand each others tactics, roles, and expectations, but to eliminate the threat. 784.03(1)(A)(1). Contact was then made with Geller at the Department of Corrections Parole and Probation Office in Inverness where he was placed under arrest. (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). At approximately 3:30 p.m. on August 19, 2022, CCSOs communication center received a call in reference to the discovery of a potential suicide, which had occurred at a residence in Pine Ridge. Detectives Cook and Watts made contact with Cohen and conducted an interview. Murder of Jessica Lunsford 3 languages 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. Detective Cornell realized how vulnerable a community can be due to emerging technologies, so he began raising awareness on internet safety for our youth and eventually adults through various speaking engagements. (Citrus County, FL) On Friday, October 14, 2022, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) Community Crimes Detectives (CCDs) arrested two individuals involved in a string of burglaries that occurred at local churches and storage facilities throughout Citrus County. Id like to thank the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, Citrus County Animal Shelter Chief Veterinarian Dr. Meaghan Mielo and Director Colleen Yarbrough, the Keokuk County Sheriffs Office, Iowa Animal Rescue League, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and the Saguache County Sheriffs Office for their steadfast dedication and assistance in this horrendous case.. Marty Taylor (DOB 1/27/1980), Homosassa, FL- Strangulation F.S.S. Circuit Judge Patricia Thomas . Today, our agency made additional progress in our resilient efforts to combat this crippling epidemic and secure the future for the betterment of our community.. Florida may be a hot destination for retired snowbirds, vacation-starved families, and spring break partiers, but its also home to some of the most notorious criminals and shocking cases in U.S. history like Ted Bundys sorority house slayings and Aileen Wuornos infamous killing spree. Her sensational trial featuring her defenses scorched-earth tactics against her family was watched by around 40 million viewers. The Citrus County Sheriffs Office will be officially announcing its membership renewal in the Missing Kids Readiness Program in partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on July 12, 2022. It has truly been an honor to have had him as part of our team, and we wish him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.. However, he broke out of the Colorado prison twice and in January 1978 he fled all the way to Florida. SPRING HILL, Fla. The Hernando County Sheriff's Office said three people are dead after an apparent double murder-suicide in Spring Hill on Monday. Community Crimes Detectives and Animal Control Officers worked alongside our partners with the Citrus County Animal Shelter and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to seize the animals found on scene and to further investigate the deaths of the deceased dogs. IN EACH FRONT-PAGE POST, THE HYPERLINK TO THE PRIMARY SOURCE IS SPECIFIED. This case is just one of many more to come in our effort to hold those responsible for destroying our communities.. A thorough investigation determined that the crash resulted from an intentional act. The investigation had a lot of moving parts and required a tremendous amount of coordination. He is being held at the Citrus County Jail without bond. Violent crimes in Citrus Hills are 45% lower than the national average. Upon arrival, deputies met with the complainant. Citrus County is where I plan to retire. The dedication shown by Analyst Heather Ramos in her position at the Sheriffs Office and as Coordinator of the Program is impressive, and we want to congratulate her on receiving national recognition, said Sheriff Mike Prendergast. Pat received a Ribbon of Commendation for his quick action in preventing someone from self-harm. At the same time, the management and security team at CoreCivic received similar information about the defendant. Elias Junior Domenech (DOB 3-3-98), of Orlando, FL. The pursuit, which lasted roughly 45-minutes, ended in the business plaza of Meadowcrest when deputies deployed stop sticks deflating the tires. Arnold was consequently sentenced to life in prison. Total bond set at $15,485.00. During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, Joe Exotic became Americas unofficial entertainer as millions of viewers self-isolated at home and watched Netflixs docuseries Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness. The hit docuseries immersed viewers in the world of private zoos and big cat conservationists, focusing primarily on eccentric zookeeper Exotic and his eventual downfall in pursuit of his rival, Carole Baskin. We are privileged to have worked alongside Chris and wish him nothing short of a happy and safe retirement.. Total bond set at $52,000. Citrus County first responders pronounced the man dead on scene and the medical examiner will determine the cause of death. The following arrests were made during Operation Rotten Eggs: Three of the arrestees listed here were also arrested during a previous operation, Deck the Cells back in December of 2021 those individuals are Nicole Mandat, Richard Harkleroad, and Corey Ross. More than 200,000 unsolved cases have gone cold since 1980, and murder clearance rates continue to drop. Video surveillance from a nearby business of one of the crime scenes captured a possible suspect vehicle. While he never reached that height of notoriety, he did. But to willingly arrange to meet up with a child to carry out these sickening acts makes them very real and very dangerous. "Since being elected Sheriff, I have upheld my promise to combat the illicit drugs in Citrus County after witnessing the damaging effects drugs have on our community, especially our youth, said Sheriff Prendergast. As Gov. For over 16 years, Detective Cornell performed digital forensic examinations on computers, cellular phones, camera systems, hard drives, thumb drives, and cloud based servers. First responders arrived at the residence shortly thereafter and pronounced the victim deceased. (Citrus County, FL) Tuesday, May 3, 2022, the Citrus County Sheriffs Offices (CCSO) Wanted of the Week, 48-year-old Jason Munn of Floral City, was arrested by authorities with the Saguache County Sheriffs Office in Colorado, thanks to the assistance of the United States Marshals Service (USMS) Fugitive Task Force. Although there are not many examples of cases where Tallahassee murders DNA has been used in order to solve cold cases, there are plenty of solved cold cases in the remainder of Florida. Your chance of being a victim of crime in Citrus County may be as high as 1 in 42 in the west neighborhoods, or as low as 1 in 71 in the north part of the county. Locally, he received the Partners with a Heart award for his outstanding work in methamphetamine eradication. According to Project: Cold Case, there were roughly 55,895 unsolved murders between 1980 and 2019 in Florida. Citrus County is very safe but one should always be prepared. On August 15, 2022, the CCSO responded to a deceased person at a residence in Inverness, Florida. While speaking with the complainant, the suspect returned to the scene in his vehicle. Of crashes, 46% involved drivers who had been drinking, and 38% involved a drunk driver. Upon further investigation by the CCDs, along with the assistance of CCSOs Intelligence Analysis Unit, detectives were able to identify the two suspects from the surveillance video as 68-year-old Steven Rodrick and 54-year-old Henry Hudson of Homosassa. There were also two dogs on the property with inadequate food, water, and shelter that were seized by CCSO Animal Control. Citrus County Sheriff's Office, FL. If you want to speak with a domestic violence advocate you can also contact CASA at 352-344-8111. (Citrus County Sheriff's Office) A west-central Florida man . I am extremely proud of the CCSO team, the Child Protection Team, and the State Attorneys Office for their efforts in taking predators like Florence off the streets of Citrus County.. Please join us in congratulating Detective Parsons on his commitment to excellence in public safety and selfless service to our community for the past two decades. The training took place at Crystal River High School over two days, Tuesday and Wednesday this week, with both CCSOs School Resource Deputies (SRD) and school Guardians in attendance.