Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office addresses recent wave of violence

In the wake of a series of violent incidents in Charlotte County, the sheriff’s office has taken to social media to reassure the community that these unsettling events are anomalies and the county remains safe.

Sheriff Bill Prummell, in a recent Facebook post, acknowledged the recent surge in violent crimes but urged residents not to lose faith in the community’s safety.

“It’s certainly been an unusual month or so in our county, but don’t lose your spirit,” he stated. “Charlotte County is still one of the safest places in the state to live, work, and play. Be safe. Be strong. And never quit!”

Sheriff’s Office Response

In response to the recent incidents, the CCSO issued a statement emphasizing that the current spike in violence is an unusual occurrence and not reflective of the typical safety standards in Charlotte County.

They assured the community that deputies are actively working to solve these cases and urged understanding regarding the limited information shared during ongoing investigations.

The Sheriff pledged to communicate resolutions to the community as soon as they become available, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the daily efforts of deputies to maintain the area’s safety.

Recent Incidents

• Trails End Drive Shooting – Jan. 24: A death investigation unfolded on Trails End Drive, where two people were shot and killed. The neighborhood was placed on lockdown, and authorities remained tight-lipped on details. Residents were left in the dark, and tensions rose as law enforcement, including a mobile command center, marine patrol and animal control units, responded to the scene. Read more.
• Fidel Fletcher’s Stabbing and Death – Dec. 26: Fidel Fletcher, sought for the murder of his wife, Nicole Gates, was found dead in the woods, suspected of suicide. The Gates family, emotionally drained, found closure after weeks of uncertainty. The Sheriff’s Office had issued a warrant for Fletcher in connection to the stabbing. Read more.
• Connor Crumrine’s Stabbing Case – Dec. 27: New charges were filed against Connor Crumrine, a 23-year-old accused of stabbing his mother to death. Facing second-degree murder charges, Crumrine had previously been charged with aggravated battery and resisting an officer. He also allegedly stabbed both his sisters. They survived the attack. Read more.