News

Pictured From Left: Daniels, Tanksley, Crawford, Sheriff Hunter, Cason, Rooney (Not Pictured: Bunner, and Davis) On Friday, December 20, 2024, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office held its annual Christmas Party and Awards Ceremony. Several individuals were recognized for their hard work throughout the year. We would like to congratulate those recipients. “Skip” Bunner was recognized…

(Pictured From Left: Stubbs, Sheriff Hunter, Cady, and Garland)   On December 3, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for three new members of the agency. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Trevor Garland was sworn in as our new Information Technology Assistant. He will be assigned to the…

On Friday, November 8, 2024, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO personnel. Robert Molinski was sworn in as a detention officer and will be assigned to the Columbia County Detention Facility. Please join us in welcoming him to our team!

On Wednesday, October 30, 2024, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO personnel. Randall Denmark was sworn in as a booking clerk at the Columbia County Detention Facility. Mr. Denmark brings a wide variety of experience to our agency. Please join us in…

(From Left: Cpl. Bedenbaugh, Sheriff Hunter, and Sgt. Waddington)   On Friday, September 13, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a promotion ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and agency personnel. Deputy Logan Bedenbaugh was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Cpl. Bedenbaugh has been serving within the Patrol Division…

Approximately ten (10) pounds of Crystal Methamphetamine and two (2) ounces of Fentanyl headed for Columbia County was seized last Friday by members of the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force (MJDTF). The seizure took place on Friday, August 23, 2024 following a several-month-long investigation. That investigation determined that these drugs were headed for Columbia County. Due…

On Friday, August 23, 2024, Sheriff Hunter conducted as swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center for three new members. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Timothy Frazer, a recent graduate of our most recent Citizen’s Academy, was sworn in as a volunteer with our Citizens Service Unit. Madison Hewes,…

On July 18, 2024, at approximately 5:30am, an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility died from apparent health complications while housed in the medical observation unit. David Odell (74 yoa), was in custody at the detention facility awaiting extradition to Pennsylvania for a violation of sex offender registration warrant. While conducting routine checks, detention…

Detectives have arrested a Lake City man after shots were fired into an unoccupied vehicle and an occupied residence early Wednesday morning. Shortly before 6:00am on Wednesday, July 17th, a deputy who was at the Columbia County Detention Facility heard several rapid gunshots which seemed to be coming from East of his location. Upon responding…

(Deputy Ceckanowicz “Chewy”)   We are pleased to announce that one of our School Resource Deputies received special recognition during the opening ceremony of the Florida Association of School Resource Officers (FASRO) conference this morning. Deputy Scott Ceckanowicz, better known as, “Chewy,” was recognized by the association as “School Resource Officer of the Year.” The…

Detectives arrested a robbery suspect late yesterday afternoon following the execution of a search warrant. On June 12, 2024, shortly after 7:00pm deputies responded to the Dollar General located at 3118 SW Main Blvd. for a report of an armed robbery which had just occurred. Witnesses told deputies that a male wearing a “Santa” t-shirt…

(From Left: Maria Knapp, Sheriff Hunter, Bill Frye)   On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a check presentation for the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. The check was for funds raised from our 13th annual community bowl-a-thon and fish fry which has been coined, “Fins-N-Pins.” This year’s event which was held in April, raised…

(Phyllis Leonard with Sheriff Hunter)   On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for two new members. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Kyler Matthewman was sworn in as the newest volunteer for our Citizens Service Unit. He will be assisting with our Evidence and Forensics…

On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and agency personnel. Haily Leon was sworn in as a Fiscal Specialist. Please join us in welcoming Haily to our CCSO team!

Two people were arrested following a search warrant this past Friday, May 31st. Detectives with the Multi-Jurisdiction Task Force conducted a search warrant at 964 SW Koonville Avenue shortly before 10:00am. The search warrant was executed following an extensive investigation. During the search warrant, a variety of drugs and weapons were recovered. Two people who…

Several of our deputies participated in criminal interdiction training this week which resulted in several arrests and a large drug seizure. From Tuesday, May 28th, through Thursday, May 30th, members of the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office (Georgia) interdiction team came to Columbia County to provide updated training to our deputies in criminal interdiction. Lowndes County…

(Pictured from Left: Thompson, Horndasch, and Agosto-Pizaro) Deputies arrested three people after disrupting a burglary in progress last Friday. On May 2, 2024, deputies were dispatched to the mini warehouses in Ellisville after the owner of the business reported that surveillance cameras were being tampered with. Upon arrival, deputies located Danielle Horndasch (35) inside a…

A traffic stop for a busted windshield resulted in the recovery of 4 pounds of methamphetamine, the arrest of a wanted fugitive in another state, and an ongoing multi-agency investigation. On April 24, 2024, a deputy with CCSO was conducting criminal interdiction on I-75. He observed a vehicle with a broken windshield and conducted a…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is sad to report the death of one of our retired K-9’s. K-9 Deputy “Rek” passed away peacefully yesterday. Rek served with the CCSO from August of 2014 to October of 2020. During his career, Rek assisted in searching for and locating suspects, missing persons, and narcotics. Most of all,…

Please complete the application at the link below and return to our Operations Center. camp application 2024    

On Tuesday, April 23, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for a new deputy. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and agency personnel. Tharen White was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming Deputy White to the CCSO family!

On Saturday afternoon deputies with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office located and recovered a 7-year-old boy who had been abducted from Brevard County earlier today. Information was received of a home invasion that occurred in Melbourne, Florida on today’s date. According to Melbourne Police, a female victim in the home had been beaten and her…

On Friday, April 5, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony. The event was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Justin King was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming Deputy King to the CCSO family!

Registration for our second Citizens Academy is now open. The class will begins on May 14, 2024. Please see the class schedule below for more information. Applicants must also fill out the civilian ride-along forms. The link to that form is also below. For more information about the program, Please contact Lt. Bulthius at (386)758-1376…

From Left: Cpl. Montemurno, Sheriff Hunter, & Sgt. Cason   On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a promotional ceremony for two employees. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Deputy Matthew Montemurno was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Montemurno has been serving in the Investigations Division as the warrants…

On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Willie Brown was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Brown to the CCCSO family!

On Wednesday, March 13, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for a new employee at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Lindsay King was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming Deputy King to the CCSO family!

A registered sex offender has been arrested on new charges of soliciting a minor. On February 14, 2024 detectives began an investigation after receiving a report that Edward Gullion (34) was using an electronic device to solicit a minor for sex. While looking into Gullion’s background, it was learned that he was already a registered…

  A Georgia man was sentenced to 30 years in prison Monday following an attempted murder that occurred in May of 2022. On May 6, 2022, deputies responded to 214 SW Harlowe Place after a landlord requested a well-being check on a tenant. Upon arrival, deputies could see the victim through a window. The victim…

On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, Sheriff Hunter held a promotional ceremony. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and co-workers. Sergeant Jimmy Watson was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lt. Watson has currently been serving in the Criminal Investigations Division and will remain in that division in his new role. Please join us in…

On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. The Ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Rebekah Gould was sworn in as a detention officer. Please join us in welcoming her to our team!

A wanted man was arrested Wednesday after deputies discovered counterfeit currency and a weapon in his possession. Wednesday evening, Deputy Montemurno was conducting a citizen contact with two subjects who were in a vehicle in the Zaxby’s parking lot. Upon making contact with the occupants of the vehicle, the odor of marijuana could be detected…

(L) Williams, (R) Brinson A stolen vehicle investigation this past Sunday led to the recovery of that vehicle, two arrests, and much more. On Sunday, January 14th, deputies were called to Fire Station #46 in Fort White for a report of a stolen vehicle. The vehicle, a 2019 Ford pick-up truck, belonged to one of…

We are excited to announce that the registration process for Class 2 of our Citizen’s Academy is now open. The start date will be February 6, 2024. Please click on the link below for more information on the class and the application form. The Civilian Ride-Along form must also be completed and turned in with…

A Lake City man was arrested yesterday afternoon after detectives concluded a month’s long investigation into possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). On November 29, 2023, detectives began an investigation after receiving a cyber-tip of someone within our jurisdiction possibly being in possession of CSAM. The subject was identified as Randy Cook (27). Upon…

  Jayden Rodriguez An aggravated assault with a vehicle against a deputy led to school lockdowns this morning. During school arrival time this morning, a school resource deputy assigned to Columbia High School observed a silver pick-up truck speeding and driving recklessly on campus. The deputy, who was on foot, attempted to gain the driver’s…

On Friday, December 15, 2023, Sheriff Hunter presented awards for employees of the year from various divisions within the sheriff’s office. The awards were presented at the Annual CCSO Christmas Party. Ben Kadel was recognized at the Citizen Service Unit Volunteer of the Year. Kelsey Hotchkiss with the Forensic Team was recognized as the Civilian…

A pursuit of a stolen ambulance ended on the front lawn of the sheriff’s office operations center late Saturday evening. On December 9th, at approximately 11:45pm, a deputy was assisting EMS with a subject who was experiencing an altered mental state and possibly under the influence of drugs in the area of SE Baya Ave.…

From Left: Deputy Chauncey, Sheriff Hunter, Deputy Cady On Wednesday, December 6, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for two new deputies. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Cody Chauncey and Aaron Cady were sworn in as deputy sheriffs. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Chauncey and Deputy Cady…

In accordance with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement, notice is hereby given of the bi-annual meeting of the 287(g) WSO Steering Committee. The Committee will meet via TEAMS/WEBEX on January 23, 2024 at 10:00am. Public comments are welcome. All those interested in speaking are…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is gearing up for another “Deputy Claus for a Cause” event. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, December 23rd when members of the CCSO will escort Santa Claus to various neighborhoods throughout our community to give out some early Christmas presents to children. This is the third year…

United States Attorney, Roger Handberg, praised members of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, along with other agencies, for their assistance in the successful prosecution of a pharmacy robber. Jesse Rance Moore (46) of Bell, Florida was convicted in federal court on November 6, 2023 for robbing four different area pharmacies. The first robbery occurred at…

On Saturday, November 18, 2023, Corporal Matthew Waddington and his K-9 partner “Cairo” participated in a competition sponsored by “K9’s United.” The event was held in Jacksonville, Florida and featured K9 teams from 13 different agencies around the state. The teams participated in various challenges where awards were given for Obstacle Course, Fastest Dog, Hardest…

Detectives have arrested an individual in the homicide of Coyoete Turner. A person of interest had previously been identified as John Leonard Bowen (47). Bowen, a registered sex offender, was being held in the Columbia County Detention Facility on unrelated charges associated with violating his sex offender registration. This morning, CCSO detectives charged him in…

On Saturday October 28th at approximately 10:00pm, deputies received a call for service requesting a well-being check on a person from Palm Beach County who had been hunting in our county. It was learned that the hunter was a deputy sheriff with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. The deputy’s wife contacted CCSO after she…

Sheriff Hunter with Deputy Rivera   On Wednesday, October 25, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for two new members of the CCSO. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and sheriff’s office personnel. Kimberly Ayers was sworn in as a member of our Citizens Service Unit and Steven Rivera was sworn in…

Yesterday afternoon (10/17) at approximately 3:30pm, detectives were in the area of NE Albritton Lane when they observed a male subject attempting to force his way into an abandoned residence. The detectives made contact with the male who was identified as Richard Thomas Jr. (49).  Upon making contact with Thomas as he was exiting the…

On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. Clarence Jones was sworn in as a detention officer. He brings with him prior experience in corrections which will be a welcomed asset to his assignment. Please join us in welcoming Detention Officer Jones to the team!

On Friday October 6th, detectives with the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force were conducting surveillance in the area of NE Escambia and NE Calhoun. They observed what appeared to be a drug transaction and made contact with a subject involved. As the subject walked away from his vehicle, he refused to stop for them and fled…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is releasing additional information regarding the deputy-involved shooting which occurred on September 8, 2023. Deputies were dispatched to a residence on SE Patio Glen regarding a domestic disturbance around 4:00pm. Deputy Brian Rix, a 28-year veteran assigned to the School Resource Unit, who was on his way home, was the…

On Wednesday, September 20, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony at CCSO Operations. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Shi’an Wilson was sworn in as a detention officer and will be assigned to the Columbia County Detention Facility. Please join us in welcoming Shi’an to our team!

Bowen   Detectives are releasing additional information in the homicide investigation of Coyoete Turner. On September 3, 2023 deputies responded to a field near SW Haltiwanger Road where Turner’s body was discovered. Turner’s body was partially burned. This made initial identification difficult. Her immediate family has been notified of the condition of the body at…

Top Row from Left: Canto, Vilardi, Owens, Morper Bottom Row from Left: Haynes, Mason, Kirk, Higgs Jr.   The Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force (MJDTF) served two search warrants yesterday (9/5/23) which resulted in ten arrests. The search warrants were the culmination of an investigation after receiving complaints and tips of drug activity at the locations,…

Detectives have identified the victim of a homicide which was reported on Sunday near Ellisville. Shortly before 11:30am on September 3, 2023, deputies responded to a field near SW Haltiwanger Road where the victim’s body was discovered. The victim has since been identified as 18-year-old, Coyoete Turner. Next of kin notifications have been completed. Detectives…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the possible homicide of a female. Shortly before 11:30am on Sunday, September 3, 2023, deputies were dispatched to a field in the area of SW Haltiwanger Road in reference to what was reported as a body which had been located. The complainant showed deputies the location, and deputies…

Deputy Canady with Sheriff Hunter   On Friday, September 1st, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for three new employees. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Amy Robinson was sworn in as a records clerk, Kiersten Canaday was sworn in as a deputy sheriff, and Michael McCarthy was sworn in…

(Left: Scippio, Right: Smith)   The two subjects who were arrested at the Columbia High School football game this past Friday evening have been identified as 18-year-old Anthony Smith and 17-year-old Jeremy Scippio. Although Scippio is a juvenile, Florida Statute allows for his identity to be released due to the severity of the charges. Both…

Pictured from Left: Sheriff Gordon Smith (Bradford County), Sheriff Mark Hunter (Columbia County), Senator Jennifer Bradley, Sheriff Michelle Cook (Clay County), and Sheriff Brad Whitehead (Union County)   On Tuesday, August 22, 2023, Sheriff Hunter, and three other sheriffs, presented Senator Jennifer Bradley with the “Friend of the Sheriff” Award from the Florida Sheriff’s Association.…

On Friday, August 18, 2023, Sheriff Hunter presented a check to Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches (FSYR) president, Bill Frye. The check was for funds raised from the 12th Annual Fins-and-Pins event which was held back in April. This year’s event raised over $34,000 for the FSYR. Since the event started, it has raised over $355,000…

On Wednesday, August 16, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held an awards ceremony for seven employees. Members of the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force were presented with the “Sheriff’s Commendation” for their work in a drug overdose death investigation. The investigation began in August of 2020 when deputies responded to a death. It was suspected that the death…

Deputy Brandon Mayes with Sheriff Hunter On Wednesday, August 9, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for two new employees. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and agency personnel. Sabrie Stamper Newman was sworn in as a warrants clerk and will be assigned to the Columbia County Detention Facility. Brandon Mayes was…

On August 7, 2023, CCSO deputies and detectives assisted Probation and Parole with an investigation at 994 NW Georgia Avenue in Lake City. During the investigation, probable cause was obtained for a search warrant. Members of the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force executed the search warrant and seized the following items:  241 grams of Marijuana…

A Lake City man has been arrested in connection with a shooting incident which resulted in the death of Kendrick Jerry (47) which occurred in late June of this year. A warrant was issued for Michael Andrew Smith (35) of Lake City after a grand jury convened today and returned an indictment. Smith was taken…

Sheriff Hunter would like to commend members of the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force for their continued efforts in combatting illegal narcotics in our community. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida recently announced a guilty plea entered by a local drug supplier. Austin Harper (26) of Lake City, pleaded guilty in federal…

On Wednesday, August 2, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, and CCSO personnel. Kathryn Hoover was sworn in as a detention officer. She will be assigned to the Columbia County Detention Facility. Please join us in welcoming her to our team!

Multiple people will face charges after an attempt to introduce contraband into the Columbia County Detention Facility. On Tuesday, July 18, 2023, staff noticed what appeared to be something suspicious about an item which had been left for an inmate. Upon further examination of the item, which was a tube of Poligrip, it was discovered…

On Wednesday, July 5,2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. James Tedjeske was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Tedjeske to our team!

There have been many misconceptions and questions surrounding the new law going into effect July 1, 2023 regarding permitless carrying (Constitutional Carry) of firearms in Florida. Please see the below information which we hope will clarify many of these common questions. Remember, it is the responsibility of each individual to know applicable laws should they…

(Pictured Left to Right: Clayton, Taylor)   Detectives have made two more arrests in connection with the murder of Shawn Waldron. Waldron’s body was discovered in the Osceola National Forest in the area of NE Gum Swamp Road west of NE Range Road on April 11, 2023. Waldron’s body had been bound and severely burned.…

On Sunday June 25, 2023 shortly after 1:00pm, deputies responded to the Chevron gas station located at U.S.441N. and I-10 for a report of shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located a subject who had been shot lying outside near the front door of the business. Deputies and EMS personnel rendered aid, but the subject was pronounced…

(Sheriff Hunter with Deputy Sweat)   On Monday, June 26, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for two new employees. The ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center and was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Justin Sweat and Franklin Lee were both sworn in as deputy sheriffs. Please join us…

(Sheriff Hunter with Derek Williams)   On Thursday, June 22, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for new employees. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Derek Williams and Richard Williams were sworn in as deputy sheriffs. Rodney Cole was sworn in as a member of the Citizen Service Unit.…

Please see the link below for more information and registration forms. This will be a first come, first serve basis. Forms may be dropped off to the resource deputy at any school or to the sheriff’s office Operations center at 4917 U.S. Highway 90 East. camp application 2022  

Corporal Aguila with Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday, May 24, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a promotional ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and agency personnel. Deputies Stephen Aguila and Joel Buchanan were promoted to the rank of corporal. Corporal Buchanan has been serving within the Patrol Division and…

Deputy Cabellero with Sheriff Hunter   On Friday, May 12, 2023, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony. It was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Noe Cabellero was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Johnnie Armstead was sworn in as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Cabellero and Nurse…

On Thursday, April 27, 2023, Sheriff Hunter conducted a promotion ceremony. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Corporal Richard Conger was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Conger has worked in other capacities within the agency and is currently assigned to a patrol shift as a supervisor. He will remain assigned…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of a shooting suspect in connection with a 2021 homicide. On Tuesday, February 2, 2021, shortly after 5:00pm, deputies responded to the intersection of SE Lochlynn Ter. and SE Putnam St. in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located two 17-year-olds who had been shot. One…

(Matthew Mandola)   On Wednesday, April 19, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for two new members of the agency. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. River Dana was sworn in as a volunteer with our Citizens Service Unit (CSU). Matthew Mandola was sworn in as a deputy sheriff.…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office has identified the homicide victim who was discovered in the woods near NE Gum Swamp Road on April 11, 2023. The victim has been identified as Shawn Waldron (32) of Lake City. Next of kin notifications were completed prior to this release. “Delivering such terrible news to a family about…

Detectives are continuing to investigate a death involving a body that was found in the area of NE Gum Swamp Road West of NE Range Road on yesterday’s date. At approximately 3:00pm yesterday, deputies were dispatched to the area for a report of a deceased individual located along the side of a forest road. Upon…

Detectives are investigating a suspicious death in the area of NE Gumswamp Road West of NE Range Road. At approximately 3:00pm on today’s date, deputies were dispatched to a forest road in this area for a report of a body which was located by a citizen. Upon arrival, deputies confirmed that there was a deceased…

Jacob Price w/ Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday, April 5, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in and promotional ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and agency personnel. Jacob Price was sworn in as an Evidence and Forensics Technician. Sergeant Keith Spradley was promoted to the rank of…

CCSO ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children) made an arrest Monday morning of a Suwannee County man who traveled to Lake City in an attempt to meet a minor. The subject, Terence Eugene Lawrence (33), believed he was talking online with a 13-year-old girl. During his conversation he described sexual acts he wished to engage in…

On Wednesday March 29th, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Angela Witt was sworn in as the new receptionist for the Columbia County Detention Facility. Please join us in welcoming her to our team!

A Jacksonville man was arrested early Friday evening March 17th, after he travelled to Columbia County to meet a 14 year old girl for sex. Selwyn Yomar Diaz Diaz (35) was apprehended by detectives after he had been communicating with who he thought was a 14 year old female. In reality, Diaz Diaz was communicating…

On Friday, March 17, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a promotional ceremony for Deputy Kimberly “Kim” Ray. The ceremony was attended by numerous family, friends, school personnel, and CCSO employees. Deputy Ray has served for several years as a school resource deputy. She was promoted to the rank of corporal and will continue to serve as…

Click link below for application and course details: Please complete the application and Civilian Ride-Along form. Links to both are below. Citizen Academy Application – May 2023 Civilian-Ride-Along-Program (Course Flyer below)

On March 7, 2023, Christopher Jones was sentenced to life in prison following a conviction for his role in supplying illegal narcotics which resulted in the death of a female back in August of 2020. On August 14, 2020, deputies responded to a residence in Columbia County for a female who was unresponsive. The female…

On Wednesday March 8, 2023, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Joesdaly Alicia-Dedos was sworn in as a detention officer and will be assigned to the Columbia County Detention Facility. Please join us in welcoming her to the CCSO family!

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office detectives with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) team arrested a man yesterday after executing a search warrant at his residence. James Foerster (59) was arrested after detectives found child pornography in his possession. Detectives began the investigation in late January after receiving a cyber-tip involving Foerster. Since that time, probable…

On Wednesday, December 21, 2022, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO Personnel. Aaron Croft was sworn in as a detention officer. Aaron has had prior experience with the Department of Corrections. Please join us in welcoming Aaron to the CCSO team!

On Wednesday, December 14, 2022, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. William McGhin was sworn in as a detention officer. He was previously employed with the Florida Department of Corrections. His experience will be a welcomed asset. Please join us in congratulation William to the CCSO team!

On Thursday December 1, 2022, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for a new employee. Jillian Hodges was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Hodges to the CCSO family!

Captain Brewington   It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of one of our employees. Captain Charles “Chuck” Brewington died late last evening (11/26/22) from injuries sustained in an off-duty utility terrain vehicle (UTV) crash. Captain Brewington served with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office since 1991. Since then, he has served in…

On Tuesday, November 22, 2022, Sheriff Hunter held a promotion ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Corporal Scott Busby was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Corporal Busby has most recently served in the School Resource Unit as a supervisor and will now be assigned…

We are aware of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office body camera video involving the arrest of Mr. James Hodges on October 31, 2022. Sheriff Hunter is troubled by what he has seen in the video and the matter is being addressed. An administrative investigation was initiated on November 3, 2022 when the incident was brought…

Corporal DaSilva with Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday, November 2, 2022, a promotional ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Sheriff Hunter promoted Deputy Matt Douglas to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Douglas has most recently been assigned to the Detective Division and will…

Bradley (L) and Terry (R)   Two individuals were arrested following an incident which resulted in the lockdown of Eastside Elementary School this morning. Tyrese Bradley (21) and Ja’ Marion Terry (19) were taken into custody shortly after fleeing on foot from deputies. The incident began when Eastside Elementary School Resource Deputy Kobe Kimble, was…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of a former employee. Clayton Pyle (37), was arrested on a local warrant in Illinois following an investigation conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Pyle, had been employed as a detention officer with CCSO and was terminated after he fled the state while on…

Ms. Guerry with Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday, October 19, 2022, Sheriff Hunter presented a local business owner with the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Gold Business Membership Award. Ms. Amy Guerry received the award in recognition of her contributions on behalf of Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Businesses who donate $500 to the FSA receive this membership…

Deputy Trevor Cayson On Wednesday, October 19, 2022, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony for three new members of the CCSO. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO personnel. Trevor Cayson and Chad Amara were sworn in as deputy sheriffs. Both bring prior law enforcement experience. Amara most recently served with the Palm…

On Thursday October 6, 2022, School Resource Deputies received a report that a student was a victim of sexual abuse. Detectives were contacted and responded to assist with the investigation. The Department of Children and Families was also called and assisted with the investigation and with ensuring the child victim was safe from any further…

Deputy Rooney with Sheriff Hunter On Friday October 7th, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO employees. Ray Greek was sworn in as a detention officer and Michael Rooney was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Both Greek and Rooney bring prior…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is still actively investigating the discovery of human remains which were found late yesterday afternoon in a wooded area along SE County Line Road near Baker County. On Monday, September 19th at approximately 4:15pm, someone who had been walking in the area called to report finding human remains. Deputies responded…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the discovery of human remains, which were found late yesterday afternoon. On Monday, September 19th shortly after 4:00pm, deputies were called to a wooded area along SE County Line Road near the Baker County line for a report of human remains being found. Upon deputies’ arrival, it was…

Michael Butler and Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday September 7, 2022 Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Michael Butler was sworn in as a detention officer. He joins CCSO with prior experience from the Florida Department of Corrections. Sheriff…

On September 1, 2022 shortly after 4:00am, deputies responded to a residence near Fort White for a report of a domestic dispute where a male subject had battered and kidnapped a female subject. Deputies acted quickly to speak with witnesses and gather information on the whereabouts of the involved parties. Through investigative measures, deputies learned…

Kellen Woolf   Another juvenile has been arrested for illegally possessing a firearm. Kellen Woolf (14) of Fort White, was taken into custody by school resource deputies yesterday after a video spawned an investigation. The investigation began when Deputy Kimberly Ray received a tip about a video depicting Woolf smoking marijuana and handling a firearm…

James & Robin Kite   Two adults have been arrested for their role in harboring a missing juvenile. On August 17th, 2022, Dalia Martinez-Lopez was reported missing. An extensive investigation was conducted by CCSO detectives and Dalia was located at a friend’s residence on August 21, 2022. During the investigation, detectives had previously been to…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to report the arrest of a robbery suspect. Emmanuel Ratliff (32) was arrested yesterday afternoon for robbing two separate Dollar General stores last week. The first robbery took place on August 16th at the Dollar General located near the intersection of S.R.247 and C.R.252B. Ratliff walked into the…

On August 18, 2022 School Resource Deputies at Columbia High School received a tip of a student who was possibly in possession of firearm coming onto the campus. The tip was received by our agency from a partnering law enforcement agency who was working a separate investigation. Deputy Cortese and school administration located the student…

(Some of the property recovered from burglary suspects)   A traffic stop on August 9, 2022 resulted in the arrest of one adult and two juveniles in connection with several recent vehicle burglaries. Devon Welch (18), Dillon Welch (17), and Rickey Curlin (16) were arrested by detectives late Tuesday afternoon. Detectives had been investigating a…

(Deputies apprehending suspects following pursuit)   On Tuesday afternoon, August 2, 2022, deputies responded to the Dollar General located at the intersection section of S.R.247 and C.R.240 for a report of a robbery that had just occurred. A suspect and vehicle description was provided to deputies who were responding to the scene. Deputy John Markmiller…

(Sheriff Hunter with K9 Deputy Chaos and community leaders)   On Wednesday August 3, 2022, Sheriff Hunter hosted a ceremony to introduce some of our community business leaders to one of our newest deputies. We are now pleased to introduce the rest of our community to K9 Deputy Chaos. In June of this year, one…

Deputy Scott, Sheriff Hunter, & Deputy Newman   On Friday July 29th, Sheriff Hunter presented the “Lifesaving Award” to two deputies and swore in a new employee. Deputies Brian Scott and Shayne Newman were presented with the “Lifesaving Award” for their actions on May 16, 2022 when they responded to a call involving three individuals…

Sergeant Norris w/ Sheriff Hunter   On Thursday, July 28th, a promotion ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and agency personnel. Sheriff Hunter promoted Ashley James to the rank of Corporal and Thomas Norris to the rank of Sergeant. Both James and Norris serve at the…

Pictured: Jeffery Clark   Detectives have arrested three subjects for various offenses which culminated in a shooting incident late this morning. There were no injuries associated with the incident. However, a vehicle was struck multiple times by gunfire. At approximately 10:20am deputies responded to an apartment complex on SW Pizarro Place for a report of…

From Left: Andrew Fulcher, Dustin James, Sheriff Hunter, & Andra Ross   On Wednesday July 6, 2022, a swearing in ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Sheriff Hunter swore in Andrew Fulcher, Andra Ross, and Dustin James as detention officers. They will be…

On Thursday June 30, 2022 a retirement ceremony was held for Sergeant Troy Green. Sgt. Green retired after 29 years of service with the CCSO. He began his career in 1993, holding several supervisory positions at the Columbia County Detention Facility along the way. He most recently served as the Administrative Sergeant at the detention…

On June 29, 2022 at approximately 9:00am, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team was assisting the Lake City Police Department in the execution of a search warrant near the intersection of NW Long Street and NW Fowler Avenue. During the search warrant, a member of the CCSO SWAT team was injured. The deputy was…

Sheriff Hunter and Sgt. Parker at Awards Presentation   On Thursday June 16, 2022, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office officially received its reaccreditation designation. The designation was awarded by the Commission for Law Enforcement Accreditation at a conference held in Orlando, Florida. Sheriff Mark Hunter and Accreditation Manager, Sergeant Chris Parker, were in attendance to…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is sad to report the death of Canine Deputy Drago. Drago and his handler were on a training exercise on June 14, 2022 when Drago suffered a heat-related injury. He was immediately transported to a veterinarian clinic for treatment. Drago was stabilized and began to show signs of recovery. Drago…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is saddened to learn of the passing of former Sheriff, Raymond “Ray” Dyal. Sheriff Dyal was appointed Sheriff of Columbia County and served from May of 1984 until January of 1985. In a statement, Sheriff Mark Hunter said, we extend our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Sheriff…

Deputy Humes and Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday May 25th, a swearing in ceremony was conducted at the CCSO Operations Center. Sheriff Hunter administered oaths to three new employees. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Heidi Humes was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Amanda Donaway was sworn in as an…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is sad to report the death of an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility. The incident occurred shortly after 12:00pm on May 5, 2022. Staff at the detention facility attempted to perform lifesaving measures on the inmate, but were unsuccessful. Although details of the incident are limited at this…

(Pictured from Left: Cpl. Maulden, Sheriff Hunter, & Detention Officer Collins)   On Wednesday May 4, 2022, Sheriff Hunter awarded the “Lifesaving Medal” to Detention Officer Mark Collins and Corporal James Maulden. This award recognizes their actions on January 30, 2022 while serving at the Columbia County Detention Facility. Detention Officer Collins observed an inmate…

On Wednesday May 4, 2022 a swearing in ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Sheriff Hunter swore in Rheys Dawson as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Dawson to the CCSO family!

On Monday April 25th at approximately 10:00am, deputies responded to a residence on NW Moore Road near U.S. Highway 41 North in reference to a subject who had been shot. Upon arrival, deputies rendered aid to a 26 year old victim who had been shot. It is believed that the suspect(s) fired rounds into the…

On Tuesday April 19, 2022 Sheriff Hunter presented the Florida Sheriff’s Association’s “Distinguished Service Award” to Hercules Maxwell. This award acknowledges 25 years of continued support to the FSA by Mr. Maxwell. The ceremony was attended by several CCSO employees. Some of these employees had the privilege of working with Mr. Maxwell prior to his…

On Monday April 18th at approximately 10:30am, the sheriff’s office was notified of a possible bomb threat at Columbia High School. Students were evacuated to a safe location and officials from CCSO and the school district implemented safety protocols. CCSO coordinated a multi-law enforcement agency search of the campus with no suspicious devices located. After…

On Wednesday April 13, 2022 a promotional ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. Deputy Cornelius Lorton was promoted to the rank of Corporal. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Corporal Lorton will continue to serve in the Patrol Division as a shift supervisor. Please join us in congratulating Corporal…

Pictured From Left: FSA Director Steve Casey, FSA President Sheriff Bobby McCallum (Levy County), Lt. Martin Lee, Sheriff Mark Hunter, Sheriff Morris Young (Gadsden County)   On Friday April 8, 2022, Class 10 of the Florida Sheriffs Institute Commanders Academy held their graduation ceremony in Tallahassee. Lieutenant Martin Lee from our agency attended this year’s…

Sheriff Hunter & Representative Brannan   On Friday, March 25, 2022, Sheriff Mark Hunter presented the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Legislative Award to Representative Chuck Brannan and Senator Jennifer Bradley at a ceremony which was held at the CCSO Operations Center. The awards were presented in recognition of the contributions these legislators have made to criminal justice…

On Thursday March 17th, Sheriff Hunter held a promotional ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Arthur Mandy was promoted to the rank of Corporal. He has served as a detention officer at the Columbia County Detention Facility and will continue serving there as a supervisor.…

On March 17, 2022 John Clink (33) was arrested in Alachua County on an escape warrant. The warrant was signed after Clink failed to return from a court-ordered furlough yesterday afternoon. Yesterday afternoon, Clink was supposed to voluntarily return to the Columbia County Detention Facility after a judge granted a furlough. When Clink did not…

On Tuesday March 15th, at approximately 11:30am, a call was received through the Columbia County Combined Communications Center regarding a possible explosive device at Columbia High School.   Although a device was not initially located, students were evacuated from the building and law enforcement responded to investigate further. It was determined that a more thorough…

Markel Strong & Sheriff Hunter   On Wednesday March 9, 2022, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center. Markel Strong and Stormi McAdams were sworn in as deputy sheriffs. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Please join us in welcoming these new employees…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announces its bid for reaccreditation. A team of assessors from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA) will arrive April 4, 2022. The agency initially received accreditation status in 2019. Accreditation is a rigorous and continuous process by which the agency can ensure the highest and most professional industry…

On Monday February 21, 2022 detectives with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office made an arrest in connection to a shooting incident which caused a lockdown of Lake City Middle School on February 14, 2022. The original incident occurred last week approximately 100 yards from the campus of Lake City Middle School, and resulted in a…

On Tuesday February 15, 2022 the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office assisted the ATF and DEA with a large operation which was conducted in our community. This operation comes in response to recent gun violence in our community.   The operation was conducted following several months of investigation and cooperation between our citizens and our local…

On Wednesday February 9th, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. Theresa Daley was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and Theresa’s new co-workers. Please join us as we welcome her to our team!

(Sgt. Geiger and Sheriff Hunter)   On Wednesday February 2, 2021 a ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was to swear in two new employees and promote five others. Numerous, family friends, and CCSO employees were in attendance. Sheriff Hunter swore in Kelsey Hotchkiss as a new evidence/crime scene technician. John…

On Thursday January 27, 2022, a retirement ceremony was held for Sergeant Melvin Sheppard. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and Sgt. Sheppard’s co-workers. Sgt. Sheppard began his career with CCSO in 1995 and now retires after 27 years of service at the Columbia County Detention Facility. He retires with the rank of Lieutenant.…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is cooperating with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement regarding the death of an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility. Although details are limited at this time due to the active investigation, the death is believed to be the result of a medical issue, and foul play is not…

  Detectives are investigating an armed robbery that occurred on Thursday January 13, 2022 at the North Florida Pharmacy in Fort White. The incident happened shortly before 4:00pm. The suspect was last seen wearing gloves, a mask, navy blue pants, dark colored jacket, and camouflage hat. The suspect was armed with a handgun. The suspect…

On Monday January 3, 2022, a swearing in ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. Hannah Adams was sworn in as a school crossing guard. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO personnel. Please join us in welcoming Hannah to our team!

On Wednesday, December 22, 2021 a promotional ceremony was held at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO personnel. Deputy Zach Skinner was promoted to the rank of Corporal. He will remain in the Patrol Division as a shift supervisor. Please join us in congratulating Corporal Skinner…

On Friday evening December 10th, several employees received recognition at the annual CCSO Christmas Party and Awards Ceremony. Sergeant Tim Ball of the School Resource Unit was recognized as this year’s “Deputy of the Year.” James Maulden was recognized as “Detention Officer of the Year.” Yaza Perez received “Detective of the Year.” Nurse Ashley Stalvey…

Detectives with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a homicide. On Sunday November 14th shortly before 9:00 pm, deputies located the body of a 30 year old male on SW Harmony Lane near State Road 47. The body was located after the suspect reported the incident to law enforcement authorities in a neighboring county.…

(Pictured from left: Stellabotte, Sheriff Hunter, Johnson, Rogers)   On Wednesday November 3, 2021, five new employees were sworn in at the CCSO Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Michelle Russell was sworn in as a school crossing guard and Tracy Allbritton was sworn in as a receptionist for…

On Wednesday September 22, a swearing in ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. Scott Nunley and Mark Collins were sworn in as detention officers. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO employees. Please join us in welcoming these two newest members to our team!          Scott Nunley     …

  On Thursday morning, Sheriff Hunter presented a check for over $58,000 to Maria Knapp with the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranch. The check was for funds raised from our annual “Fins-N-Pins” fundraiser for the Youth Ranch. The event is held each April and consists of a bowl-a-thon, followed by a community fish fry and auction.…

Two juveniles were arrested at a Columbia High School football game last Friday after they were found to be in possession of firearms. On Friday September 3, 2021, School Resource Deputies who were working security at the Columbia High School football game were notified of a juvenile who was possibly armed. The juvenile was located…

On Wednesday August 18, 2021, a swearing in ceremony was held at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. Joel Thomas and Ryan Fisher were sworn in as Deputy Sheriffs. The ceremony was attended by friends and family. Please join us in welcoming these new deputies to our team!   Ryan Fisher Joel Thomas

Rebecca Roode, Sheriff Hunter, Deborah Barry On Tuesday August 10, 2021, a swearing in ceremony was conducted at the CCSO Operations Center. Rebecca Roode and Deborah Barry were sworn in as school crossing guards. Please join us in welcoming these two employees to our team.

On Wednesday August 4, 2021, a swearing in ceremony was held at the CCSO Operations Center. Andrea Young was sworn in as a detention officer. Please join us in welcoming Andrea to our team!

A deputy with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office was arrested and placed on administrative leave following a theft investigation. In the early morning hours of July 30, 2021, a citizen complaint was received alleging a deputy had stolen money from a vehicle during a call for service. Supervisors immediately began looking into the complaint. During…

On July 28, 2021 at approximately 11:30pm, deputies were involved in a vehicle pursuit which resulted in a fatal crash. A deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop and accelerated. A pursuit was initiated with other deputies responding to assist.…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Unit received special recognition earlier today. Each year, the sheriff’s office sends resource deputies to the annual Florida Association of School Resource Officers (FASRO) conference. This year, the conference was held in Orlando. Every year, one agency is selected as the agency of the year after a FASRO…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office has received calls concerning recent COVID-19 cases at the Columbia County Detention Facility. We wanted to reassure the public that we are taking precautions to prevent the spread of the virus within the facility. The following measures have been implemented:  Anyone gained into the facility is screened upon arrival.…

After a nearly year-long investigation, two Columbia County residents were arrested for homicide resulting from their involvement in an overdose death. On August 14, 2020, deputies responded to a residence in Columbia County for a female who was unresponsive. The female was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced deceased. Preliminary investigation revealed signs…

On Wednesday July 21, 2021, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony at CCSO Operations. Tammy Bullock was sworn in as a detention officer. The ceremony was attended by friends and CCSO personnel. Please join us in welcoming Detention Officer Bullock to our team!

On Thursday July 15, 2021, Corporal Richard Conger was recognized by the Florida Narcotic Officers’ Association. Conger received the Region II “Officer of the Year” award for his accomplishments while serving on the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force. The ceremony was held in Orlando and was attended by Sheriff Hunter, and other members of the Sheriff’s…

On Friday July 9, 2021, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swearing in ceremony at CCSO Operations. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and Sheriff’s Office personnel. Sarah Griffin was sworn in as a part-time evidence clerk and Brian Scott was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming these new employees to…

On July 5, 2021, deputies responded to a dispute at a location near NE Thomas Camp Rd. Upon arrival, deputies located a male subject who was walking in the road, armed with a handgun. Upon making initial contact, the subject began pointing the gun at his head, and at deputies. At some point during the…

On Tuesday June 29, 2021 Sheriff Hunter presented the Florida Sheriffs Association’s “Distinguished Service Award” to Dr. Barney E. McRae Jr. This award was presented on behalf of the Florida Sheriffs Association for 55 years of support. In a statement, Sheriff Hunter said, “Dr. McRae has not only been an integral part of our community,…

On Thursday June 17, 2021, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. Julie Green was sworn in as the new receptionist at the Columbia County Detention Facility. The ceremony was attended by friends and CCSO personnel. Please join us in welcoming Julie to our team!

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On Wednesday May 26, 2021, Sheriff Hunter held a swearing in ceremony at the CCSO Operations center. The ceremony was attended by family and Sheriff’s Office personnel. Jack Crary was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Crary to our team!

  On Wednesday May 5, 2021, deputies apprehended an attempted murder suspect at the Best Western Motel located on Florida Gateway Dr. The arrest resulted from a shooting incident which occurred on the evening of Wednesday April 25, 2021 on Highway 90 West near the I-75 interchange.   Joshua Bell Farmer (27) of Lake City…

On Wednesday afternoon May 5, 2021, Sheriff Hunter promoted four members of the agency. The ceremony was attended by a host of family, friends, and CCSO personnel. Corporal Shane Foote was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. He was previously assigned as a patrol Corporal, supervising a shift. He will now serve as a watch…

On Wednesday morning May 5, 2021, Sheriff Hunter promoted several members of the agency. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Captain Katina Dicks, who had previously been assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division, was promoted to the rank of Major. She will serve as the agency’s Chief Deputy. Lieutenant Robert Holloway…

On Tuesday May 4, 2021, deputies arrested two individuals in connection with a burglary in the area of NW Streamside Ct. Shortly after 7:00am, deputies received a report of a burglary that had just occurred. Units arrived quickly and noticed a vehicle which was abandoned on the shoulder of the roadway. The tag was registered…

     After a 34 year law enforcement career, Chief Deputy, Major Joe Lucas, retired from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.       A retirement ceremony was held on April 30, 2021 at the Sheriff’s Office Operations Center. The ceremony was attended by many friends, co-workers, and family. During the ceremony, Sheriff Mark Hunter…

Detectives are investigating a sex crimes case involving the subject pictured below. Justin Powers has been arrested in relation to various sex offenses. Detectives are asking the public to be aware of this information as additional victims could be forthcoming. If anyone has information regarding other potential victims in connection with Powers, please contact Detective…

On Wednesday April 28, 2021, Sheriff Hunter held a swear-in ceremony at the CCSO Operations Center. Tom Lattin was sworn in as an evidence clerk. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and Sheriff’s Office personnel. Please join us in welcoming Tom to the Sheriff’s Office!

On Wednesday April 21, 2021, Sheriff Hunter promoted two members of our agency. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and Sheriff’s Office personnel. Tracy Hicks was promoted to Warrants Supervisor at the Columbia County Detention Facility. Prior to this assignment, Hicks served in various capacities throughout the agency. Most recently, she was an administrative…

On Wednesday April 14, 2021, Sheriff Hunter held a swear-in ceremony at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center. Adam Wetherington was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. The ceremony was attended by Sheriff’s Office employees and family. Please join us in welcoming Deputy Wetherington to our team!

We are pleased to announce that the investigation into a child abduction has come to a safe conclusion. Investigation led to the safe recovery of Lucy and Jaxon Evans at a motel in Suwannee County, Florida. An AMBER Alert was issued on Wednesday evening after the children were abducted by their biological parents, David Evans…

Detectives are actively investigating a parental abduction which occurred on Wednesday March 31, 2021 at approximately 5:15 pm. The suspects are Sydni Jones (23 year old W/F) and David Evans (24 year old W/M). The children have been identified as Jaxon Evans (4 year old W/M) and Lucy Evans (2 year old W/F). Both suspects…

On Wednesday March 31, 2021, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swear-in ceremony for a new employee. Clayton Pyle was sworn in as a Detention Officer. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO employees. Pyle will be assigned to the Columbia County Detention Facility. Please join us in welcoming Clayton to our team!

On Wednesday March 10, 2021, Sheriff Hunter conducted a swear-in ceremony for 2 new members. Jimmy Sparks and Arthur Pacheco were sworn in as members of our Citizen Service Unit (CSU). The ceremony was attended by Sheriff’s Office personnel. Please join us in welcoming these gentlemen to our team!

On Wednesday March 3, 2021 detectives served a search warrant at the Roadway Inn in Lake City in relation to a registered sex offender who was in possession of child pornography. Paul Futch (48) of Lake City, was subsequently arrested. The “National Center for Missing and Exploited Children” (NCMEC) alerted CCSO last April about possible…

On Wednesday February 17, 2021, Sheriff Hunter held a swear-in ceremony at the Sheriff’s Operations Center. Rhionna Gaal was sworn in as a detention officer. The ceremony was attended by other Sheriff’s Office personnel. Gaal will be assigned to the Columbia County Detention Facility as a detention officer. Please join us in welcoming Detention Officer…

On Friday February 12th at approximately 6:30pm, one of our deputies was involved in a 3 vehicle traffic crash while driving home in his agency patrol car. The crash occurred on U.S. Highway 441 South near SE Sprite Loop. Sadly, the crash resulted in the death of a female who was driving one of the…

(Clayton Travon Hopkins) D.O.B. 10/16/2002   Detectives continue to investigate a shooting incident which occurred on Tuesday, February 2, 2021. The incident left Dionne Leslie (17years old) dead and another teenager wounded. This investigation has developed many leads, but has also been hindered by the reluctance of potential witnesses to come forward with information. Detectives…

On Wednesday, February 3, 2021, Sheriff Hunter swore in a new agency member and promoted another employee. Sirena Davison was promoted to the rank of Corporal and Brittany Bines was sworn in as an LPN. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Corporal Davison will be a shift supervisor at the Columbia…

Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office are continuing to investigate a double shooting which resulted in the death a local teenager. On Tuesday, February 2, 2021 shortly after 5:00pm, deputies responded to the intersection of SE Lochlynn Ter. and SE Putnam St. in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located two 17 year old juveniles…

     (Bayshine Leary)   On Saturday, January 30, 2021 shortly after 3:00am, deputies responded to a shooting at the “Q-Time 777” casino on East Duval Street near Cider Avenue. The incident resulted in one person being pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigation has revealed that Bayshine Leary (42 years of age), had been at…

On Wednesday, January 27, 2021, Sheriff Hunter promoted Corporal Michael Stancil to the rank of Sergeant. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Sergeant Stancil has served as a shift supervisor at the Columbia County Detention Facility and will remain at the Detention Facility as a Sergeant. Please join us in congratulating…

(Sheriff Hunter is sworn in by Circuit Judge Melissa Olin. His wife, Marilyn, holds the Bible)   On Tuesday, January 5, 2021, Sheriff Mark Hunter was sworn in during a ceremony held at the school board complex in Lake City. All elected Constitutional officials were sworn in during the ceremony, which was attended by family,…

On Wednesday December 30, 2020, Sheriff Hunter promoted Detective D’Andra Cole to the rank of Corporal. The ceremony was attended by family and Sheriff’s Office personnel. Corporal Cole began her career at CCSO as a detention officer. While serving at the Detention Facility, she promoted to the rank of Corporal, as well. She then transferred…

On Wednesday December 23, 2020, a retirement ceremony was held for Corporal Brian Rix. Corporal Rix began his career at the Sheriff’s Office in 1992 as a patrol deputy. He has been a detective, and most recently, he has served as a supervisor in the School Resource Division. He retires after 28 years of service.…

On Friday December 18, 2020, Sheriff Hunter promoted two CCSO employees. Deputy Renee Lents was promoted to the rank of Corporal, and Sergeant Ronnie Daniels was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and CCSO employees. Corporal Lents joined the agency in 2008 and was most recently assigned to…

On Wednesday December 16, 2020, Sheriff Hunter swore in two new members. Tiffany Saylor was sworn in as a Detention Officer and Amy Gibson was sworn in as a School Crossing Guard. The ceremony was attended by family and CCSO employees. We would like to welcome both of these ladies to our team and wish…

On Wednesday December 9, 2020, Sheriff Hunter promoted two employees. Detective Josh Samson was promoted to the rank of Corporal and Corporal Brett Sullivan was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. The ceremony was attended by family and Sheriff’s Office employees. Corporal Samson will be transferred from the Criminal Investigations Division, where he has served…

On Wednesday December 9, 2020, Sheriff Hunter presented Deputies Chris Hadley and Mitchell Kernan with the “Life-saving Award”. On September 7, 2020, the deputies responded to a call regarding a tree that had fallen on an elderly male, pinning him against his tractor. The deputies located a chainsaw nearby and were able to free the…

  We would like to wish Lieutenant Holly Castagna a happy retirement and thank her for her many years of service. Lt. Castagna began her career as a  Detention Officer with CCSO in 1999. She was promoted to Sergeant in 2003 and to the rank of Lieutenant in 2014. She celebrated her retirement November 30,…

On Wednesday November 25, 2020, Sheriff Hunter swore in two new employees. Brittany Brown was sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff and will be assigned to the Patrol Division. Cassandra Sansonne was sworn in as a Detention Officer and will be assigned to the Detention Facility. The ceremony was attended by family and Sheriff’s Office…

On Saturday, November 14, 2020, Deputy Aaron Swears conducted a traffic stop for an inoperable headlight. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Stanley Maxwell Jr. (20) of Lake City. During the course of the stop, a strong odor of suspected marijuana was detected by Deputy Swears. Maxwell was also acting suspiciously, as if…

On Saturday, November 7, 2020, deputies responded to a report of an attempted home invasion in the vicinity of NW Leonia Way. Upon making contact with the victim/ homeowner, it was learned that a male subject attempted to break into the victim’s home, armed with a shotgun. The homeowner’s children were also present during the…

On Wednesday November 4, 2020, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Corporal Lance Stapleton to the rank of Sergeant. Sergeant Stapleton was previously assigned as an administrative Corporal at the Columbia County Detention Facility. He will remain at the Detention Facility as a shift Sergeant. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and Sheriff’s Office employees. Please…

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office detectives are assisting the Riviera Beach Police Department with a homicide investigation of a Columbia County resident. The homicide is believed to have occurred in Riviera Beach. On Monday, October 26, 2020, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the parents of an 18 year old adult female who requested…

Friday evening, October 23, 2020, deputies apprehended a homicide suspect from Georgia in Columbia County. On October 23, 2020, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputies received information from Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office (Georgia) and the Georgia Bureau of Investigations that a burglary suspect in a stolen vehicle from their jurisdiction was traveling through our county. Deputies…

On Wednesday, October 21, 2020 in a ceremony attended by Sheriff’s Office personnel and immediate family, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in two new members. Ashley James was sworn in as a Detention Officer and Rebecca Mueller was sworn in as School Crossing Guard. They both bring previous experience in these positions. James will be assigned…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce Sergeant Steven Khachigan as our new Public Information Officer (PIO). Sergeant Khachigan has served with the Sheriff’s Officer for over 15 years in numerous capacities. Sergeant Khachigan replaces Sergeant Murray Smith, who is retiring at the end of the month. We would like to wish Sgt.…

On Wednesday, July 8, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter awarded Lieutenant Chris Sharpe and Corporal Matthew Baucom   the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Commendation Medal for their actions on June 24, 2020.   On that day, Lt. Sharpe and Cpl. Baucom responded to a call of an…

On Wednesday, July 1, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter awarded Deputy Anthony Cortese the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Lifesaving Medal for his actions on February 24, 2020.   Deputy Cortese was working as a School Resource Deputy at Lake City Middle School that February day when…

In the earlier morning hours of Wednesday, June 3, a Columbia County Sheriff’s Office deputy arrested a wanted FBI fugitive suspected of being a member of a dangerous organized drug trafficking ring in north central Florida.   At around 2:15, the deputy noticed a vehicle with an expired tag and stopped the vehicle for the…

Our community has a lot of questions about Governor DeSantis’ Executive Order 20-91 (Essential Services and Activities During COVID-19 Emergency) or as some have called it a stay at home order and how it will affect us.   As a county we are complying with the majority of the directives listed in the Order to…

Sheriff Mark Hunter is urging residents to download the free Florida See Something, Say Something mobile app (Florida See Say) to report suspicious activity. The app allows citizens to report suspicious activity related to terrorism. Citizens can also access educational materials and PSA videos to learn what is considered suspicious activity and how to stay…

As the nation responds to the COVID 19 pandemic, we at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office are adapting to the challenges associated with providing professional law enforcement services to our community while keeping our citizens and our personnel safe and virus free.   “I want to assure the citizens of Columbia County, that if or…

On Wednesday, March 25, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detention Deputy Brittany Ashcraft to the rank of Corporal.   In a private ceremony, Corporal Ashcraft, who has been with the Sheriff’s Office since 2016, was “pinned” by her father. Following her promotion, she will remain assigned to the Detention Division where she will be a shift…

03132020-Mass Gatherings Columbia This was send out by Columbia County Health Department.  These are common sense guidelines that can help us all stay healthy.  There are currently no cases in our community so live life and use precautions set out in this memo.  We will get through this together!!!!  

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (March 11, 2020) – Today, the Florida Sheriffs Association, Florida Police Chiefs Association, and the Florida Highway Patrol announced the launch of Operation Dry Streets, a joint statewide initiative that focuses on keeping the roads safe for citizens and visitors across Florida. The operation targets those who drive impaired and otherwise jeopardize public…

On Monday, March 9, a robbery and shooting at a Vegas One Casino at 4201 S U. S. Highway 441 has left a person shot and started a two county manhunt for the perpetrators.   At about 4:50 am, Deputies responded to the casino due to 911 calls of a robbery and shooting. A nearby…

On Tuesday morning, March 3, Deputies were called to a residence at the 200 block of SW Creekside Lane where a man had been attacked by a machete wielding suspect. Deputies located the victim inside his garage suffering from serious injuries to his upper body. The victim was conscious and able to provide the deputies…

On Thursday night, February 13, Detectives began a homicide investigation in the 300 block of SW Donovan Glenn in unincorporated Columbia County. Shortly after 7 PM, deputies were dispatched to a person shot call at the address. Once on scene, they located the victim deceased laying near a running vehicle.   The victim Mr. Linville Curtis,…

On Friday, January 03 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Deputy Scott Busby to the rank of Corporal and Corporal Chris Parker to the rank of Sergeant. Corporal Busby has been with CCSO since 2008, working various assignments as a patrol deputy, courthouse security, and a…

On Friday, December 13, Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter presented awards to Mr. T. L. Welles and Mr. Roger Noll for their support for the Florida Sheriffs Association.   At a ceremony honoring the two, Sheriff Hunter gave the awards to the honorees which read, “With sincere thanks for your loyal support as an honorary…

On Tuesday morning, December 3, Columbia County deputies stopped a vehicle travelling on I75 and uncovered a trove of edible items laced with illegal drugs headed to the Tampa Bay area. At around 10:20 am, deputies were patrolling the interstate highway within Columbia County when the suspect’s vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. During…

On Wednesday, October 30 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detective Josh Green to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Green has been with CCSO since 2014, working various assignments as a patrol deputy, Field Training Officer, SWAT member and a detective. Following his promotion, Corporal Green…

On Friday, October 11, Sheriff Mark Hunter presided over a retirement ceremony at the Sheriff’s Operation Center for a valued team member. K9 Bak, one of 4 canines used at the Sheriff’s Office was retired after a stellar career. Bak joined CCSO in Aug 2014 and immediately his impact was felt. Bak, a multi-purpose canine…

On Thursday, October 10, President Bill Frye of the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches along with Vice President Maria Knapp presented Sheriff Mark Hunter and the his staff with the “Helping Hand Society” statue for raising over 100k for the Youth Ranches over the years. We at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office take keeping youth safe…

As your Sheriff’s Office works toward a safer Columbia; it’s important for our partners in the community to understand how we protect and why we do some of the things we do. Biased Policing  The Difference Between Biased Policing & Criminal Profiling Biased policing is the use of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, economic status, background,…

On Thursday, September 12, a local business donated a grill to the CCSO’s School Resource Unit for use at community functions. At our local Lowes, during their contractor appreciation luncheon, Sheriff Mark Hunter accepted the grill from Ryan Shoemaker, the owner of Specialty Wood Crafters. The grill will be used at our summer camps, our…

On Thursday, August 22, Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter recognized a local man for his tremendous support to the Florida Sheriffs Association. In a ceremony at the Sheriff’s Office, Mr. Zimmie Petty of Lake City was presented with the Distinguished Service Award by Sheriff Hunter. He was recognized for 35 years of contributing to the…

On Wednesday, July 24, Sheriff Mark Hunter awarded Larry Auger with the Sheriff’s Commendation Medal before a group of Sheriff’s Office personnel.   Mr. Auger has been with the agency since 2009, where he started as the Sheriff’s executive assistant and later promoted to the Director of Administrative Services in 2015.   For the last…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that our Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force was the recipient of the 2019 Florida Narcotic Officer’s Association Region II Unit of the Year Award.  The award was presented last week at the 2019 FNOA Conference.   The MJDTF is part of the North Florida High Intensity Drug…

As Hurricane season began June 1 and Floridians take steps to prepare, a new tool makes reporting price gouging easy. Florida Attorney General, Ashley Moody has notified the state of a new app for mobile devices that you can us to report incidents of price gouging.  The app named “No Scam” is on Google Play…

On Wednesday, June 26, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office received accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation at their meeting in Orlando. Sheriff Mark Hunter was present and accepted a plaque signifying the achievement. In April, CCSO underwent a detailed inspection by a team of assessors from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement…

This year’s Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) uniform crime report (UCR) shows a significant decrease in crime for Columbia County. Yearly, the Sheriff’s Office sends its crime information to Tallahassee, where FDLE makes a report and sends it to the FBI in Washington, DC. The statistics are compiled and used to track crime trends…

On Wednesday, June 5, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter awarded Deputy Benjamin Dupree, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Lifesaving Medal for his actions on February 26, 2019. Deputy Dupree responded to a call involving an adult male having a significant cardiac event and he was no…

Shortly after midnight, Monday April 15, the third suspect in the murder of Steven McGee was taken into custody outside a Lake City Motel where he was staying. After obtaining information from the U.S. Marshals, CCSO detectives responded to the Super 8 Motel off SR 47.  After a short time, the suspect, Cody James Bartosek,…

Arrests Made In McGee Murder In the early morning hours of Friday, April 12, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested two in the murder of Steven McGee, who was found Monday morning deceased along Old Spanish Road in the Fort White area. Arrested were Dashan Ricardo Lewis, 42 and Danielle Katherine Cianelli, 22 both of…

Detectives have identified the victim as Steven McGee, 29.  The victim’s last known address was in Branford, but he had connections to Columbia, Suwannee and Gilchrist Counties.  “Cases of this nature are rare in this area and cause fear in our community. “ Sheriff Mark Hunter said, “We are working around the clock to get…

On Monday, April 8, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives began an investigation into the death of a male that was found lying in a wooded area off Old Spanish Rd near Fort White. Before noon, Deputies responded to the area due to a report from a citizen.  The citizen, who was taking a walk, discovered…

On Friday, March 1in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter awarded six deputies, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Lifesaving Medal for their involvement in four separate incidents. Sergeant Randy Harrison was awarded the Lifesaving Medal for his actions on October 2, 2018 when he saved a choking toddler.…

ACCREDITATION TEAM INVITES PUBLIC COMMENTS ABOUT THE COLUMBIA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (FL) A team of assessors from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA) will arrive April 8 to examine all aspects of the CCSO’s policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services.  CCSO has to comply with approximately 250 standards in order to receive accredited status. Many…

 Driving is serious business!  The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office offers a course to better equip teen drivers with the techniques and tools needed to become safe and defensive drivers.  Under the direction of professional driving instructors, students learn how to check their vehicle and perform basic maintenance such as checking the oil and tire pressure.  This may…

On Thursday evening, December 27, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for the 11 year old that shot and killed 14 year old Jadon Vaughn, Wednesday night.   Carter Palm, 11 of Lake City was taken into custody without incident at a residence in Gilchrist County on the charge of Manslaughter and…

On Wednesday, December 26, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives began an investigation into the shooting death of a juvenile.   At about 7 pm, Deputies responded to the 200 block of SE Anastasia Street in unincorporated Columbia County due to a report of a person shot. When Deputies arrived they learned the subject that had…

On Tuesday, December 4, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives began a homicide investigation into the death of a female who had been discovered in a local motel room. Deputies had been sent to the Sands Motel at 1600 E Duval Street in unincorporated Lake City to do a welfare check on a female staying in…

As your Sheriff’s Offices works toward a safer Columbia; it’s important for our partners in the community to understand how we protect and why we do some of the things we do. Bias-Based Profiling The Difference Between Bias-Based Policing & Criminal Profiling Bias-based policing is the use of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, economic status, background,…

On Wednesday night, October 25, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives began an investigation into the death of a CCSO inmate at the county jail.   The investigation was prompted when Detention Deputies who were conducting routine inmate checks found Harry Leary, 57 dead in his cell. Leary was in alone in the cell waiting to…

On Saturday, September 29, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives began a homicide investigation in the normally peaceful Three Rivers community of Fort White.   The investigation was prompted by a late night 911 call into the Columbia County Combined Communications Center reporting an altercation and shooting at the Three Rivers boat ramp at 1102 SW…

On Friday, September 7 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detective Chris Parker to the rank of Corporal and Corporal Brian Lucas to the rank of Sergeant. Corporal Parker has been with CCSO since 2014 and will be reassigned from the Criminal Investigation Division to the…

On Wednesday, August 22 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detective Sergeant Don Meyer to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Meyer has been with CCSO since 1998, working a variety of assignments in patrol, school resource, crime scene investigations and criminal investigations. Lieutenant Meyer will remain…

Wednesday night, August 8, Detectives were called to the scene of a homicide in the 300 block of Raven Ln in unincorporated Columbia County. At about 8:30 pm, patrol deputies responded to a service call to assist EMS medics who were out with a male lying in the street on Raven Ln. The deputy arrived…

On Friday, July 27 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detective Shayne Foote to the rank of Corporal and awarded Life Saving medals to Deputy Olivia Roberts, Deputy Lemny Sanchez and Sergeant Keith Spradley. Corporal Foote has been with CCSO since 2011 and will be assigned…

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (July 25, 2018) –The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), one of the largest and most successful law enforcement associations in the nation, is pleased to announce its leadership for the 2018-2019 year, which is led by Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter who has been elected as president. Sheriff Hunter will be responsible for presiding…

On Thursday afternoon, July 19, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested a Fort White man for two armed robberies he committed during the last week of June. Michael Lanter, 41 was arrested at his home, 6165 SW CR 18 in Fort White after Detectives served a search warrant on the residence and recovered evidence of…

On Thursday, June 21, a Deputy patrolling a neighborhood in unincorporated Columbia County uncovers a substantial drug operation. The Deputy was driving through the Wise Estate subdivision, when he noticed a car starting to drive away from a home. The car suddenly stopped and the driver tried to conceal himself by reclining his seat back. …

On Tuesday, June 12, Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter recognized a local gentleman for his tremendous support to the Florida Sheriffs Association. In a ceremony at the Sheriff’s Office, Mr. Sidney Strickland Jr. of Lake City was presented with the Distinguished Service Award by Sheriff Hunter. He was recognized for 40 years of contributing to…

On Wednesday, May 16 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter awarded three Deputies the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Lifesaving Medal. Deputy Eric Wright was awarded the Lifesaving Medal for his actions on February 25, 2018 when he gave first aid to a severely injured 5 year old.…

A traffic stop by a Columbia County Deputy Sheriff has led to a large amount of illegal drugs being taken off the streets. On Tuesday, May 15, a Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a car travelling on I75 near mile marker 429 for speeding and driving too fast for conditions while taking part in…

At 10 am Wednesday, May 9, a shooting suspect turned himself in to Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives at the Sheriff’s Operation Center , 4917 U.S. Highway 90 E in Lake City.   The shooting investigation began Tuesday night when a 911 caller reported a disturbance with shots fired at a home on SE Robinhood…

Mary Rhodes Robertson went missing from her home near the area of SW Parker Lane and SW Barwick Terrace on May 6th, 2015.  She was last seen by her husband at their home at approximately 10:00am, an hour later she was gone.  After looking for Mary himself, along with the help of neighbors, the husband…

On Saturday, April 21, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office will launch the Florida Sheriffs Association sponsored teen driver challenge in our county. The teen driver challenge was created in 2007 to address the many challenges teen drivers face and this successful program is used across the state to help teens become better drivers. The program…

On Monday, April 16, in a case initiated by Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, a federal jury has found Jason James Neiheisel 28 of Jacksonville guilty of sharing child sex abuse videos and making them available for online distribution. The investigation began in April of 2017 when a CCSO Detective assigned to the North Florida Internet Crimes…

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that Lieutenant Todd Lussier graduated from the FBI National Academy. The FBI National Academy is a professional course for law enforcement leaders held at the FBI training facility in Quantico, Virginia. The course of study serves to improve the administration of justice in law enforcement agencies…

A routine traffic stop by a Columbia County Deputy Sheriff has potentially uncovered a major fraud operation that possibly has international ties.   On Wednesday, January 17, a CCSO Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a car travelling on I75 for failing to maintain a single lane.   The driver produced a Brazilian identification card…

On Friday, December 29, Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter recognized a national business organization for their support to the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches.   In a ceremony at the Sheriff’s Office, Select Rehabilitation LLC was presented with the Honorary Lifetime Membership in the Florida Sheriffs Association by Sheriff Hunter.   Select Rehabilitation oversees the rehabilitation…

On Monday, December 11 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Corporal Martin Lee to the rank of Sergeant. Sergeant Lee has been with CCSO since 2011 and will remain in the Criminal Investigations Division as the agency’s Internal Affairs Inspector. Following the promotion, Sheriff Hunter recognized…

On Friday, December 8 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Deputy Brett Sullivan to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Sullivan has been with CCSO since 2014 and will remain in the Patrol Division as a shift supervisor. We would like to congratulate Corporal Sullivan on his…

On Friday evening after 4 pm, a NY State Police Officer spotted the red Mercury in Syracuse NY. He stopped the car that was occupied by Rian Rodriguez and Caitlyn. Rian was taken into custody without incident and Caitlyn is detained. Caitlyn’s family has been notified. Columbia County Sheriff’s Office will hold a press conference…

    On Sunday, November 26, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives began a search for a missing 17 year old female believed to be accompanied by an adult.   Caitlyn Frisina, 17 of Fort White left her home, leaving behind her cell phone after doing a factory reset on it. Footprints leading away from the…

Sexual Predator Address Change   In accordance with Florida Statute 775.21, this is a mandatory notification of the changing of address of a registered sexual predator in Columbia County.   Name:  Leroy James Duckworth Address: 343 NW Patriot Ct, Lake City, FL 32055 DOB: 05/22/1964 Hair Color: White Eyes: Brown   The above subject was…

On Tuesday, October 31, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputies arrested a 13 year old juvenile on multiple charges including carjacking and abduction following a frantic 911 call from the victim.   At 4:05 pm, the Columbia County Combined Communication Center received a 911 call from a female stating a subject had stolen her car at…

On Thursday, October 26, Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter recognized a local couple for their tremendous support to the Florida Sheriffs Association. In a ceremony at the Sheriff’s Office, George and Carol Richardson of Wellborn were presented with the Distinguished Service Award by Sheriff Hunter. They were recognized for their 50 years of contributing to…

On Wednesday, October 25, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputies arrested two men on multiple charges including drug and firearm charges following a vehicle pursuit and crash.   At 1:46 pm, a CCSO Deputy stopped a U-Haul truck on I75 near mile marker 431 for an improper lane change which nearly caused a crash. The Deputy…

Sexual Predator Address Change   In accordance with Florida Statute 775.21, this is a mandatory notification of the changing of address of a registered sexual predator in Columbia County.   Name:  Heather Lea Burroughs Address: 175 SW Sundown Way, Lake City, FL 32024 DOB: 4/15/1983 Hair Color: Brown Eyes: Brown   The above subject was…

On Thursday, October 5, Sheriffs from Florida’s district 5 gathered as Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter, the current vice president of the Florida Sheriffs Association awarded Florida Senator Rob Bradley the “Friend of the Sheriff” award.   In the ceremony at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Operation Center, Senator Bradley was praised for supporting drug control…

On Tuesday, October 3, Sheriff Mark Hunter accepted a plaque and thank you letter from the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation for CCSO’s involvement in a statewide sting conducted in June of 2017.   CCSO worked jointly with personnel from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (FDBPR) during the one day…

On Thursday, September 21, a luncheon was held at the Sheriff’s Operation Center in honor of Ms. Susan Cone. In the retirement ceremony at the beginning of the luncheon, Sheriff Mark Hunter shared with gathered well-wishers that Ms. Susan has been a dedicated and valued member of the Sheriff’s Office for 30 years. Her position…

In accordance with Florida Statute 775.21, this is a mandatory notification of the changing of address of a registered sexual predator in Columbia County.   Name:  Edward Leroy Thomas Address: 560 SE Peacock Terrace, Lake City, FL 32025 DOB: 7/3/1943 Hair Color: Grey Eyes:   Brown   The above subject was convicted of:   9/22/2014 for…

On Thursday, August 17, in a ceremony attended by friends, family, and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter presented Detective Andrea Useche with the Sheriff’s Office Commendation Medal for her outstanding work on a long term multifaceted investigation. In May 2016, Detective Useche began an investigation into a local fraud complaint. As her investigation progressed,…

Late Tuesday evening, August 8, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested Steven Moot, 32 of Lake City for attempted murder of his wife as the investigation into a person being shot at a home on Corwin Glen  continues.   Thursday at 5:21 pm, Deputies responded to a 911 call at the home and discovered Amanda…

On Tuesday, August 8, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were called to the 400 block of Corwin Glen in unincorporated Columbia County due to a 911 call reporting a person had been shot.   At approximately 5:20 pm, the Columbia County Combined Communications Center received a 911 call where an argument could be heard. During…

CCSO School Resource Deputies and staff from the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches put on the second summer camp in Columbia County at Fort White High School last week.  Fun was had by all as highlighted in the attached video.  Many thanks to the local sponsors, who join with Sheriff Mark Hunter to provide a great…

On Friday, July 14 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Deputy Blaine Crews to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Crews has been with CCSO since 2014 and will remain in the Patrol Division where he will be a shift supervisor. We would like to congratulate Corporal…

Each Summer, Sheriff Mark Hunter hosts two summer camps for students to offer them a fun and safe environment, while interacting with first responders.  This 14 minute video from the first camp at Melrose Elementary School demonstrates the excellent time had by all!. The Sheriff’s Office teams up with the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches to provide these quality camps.  Local businesses and…

On Thursday, June 22, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested six subjects during an undercover sting targeting unlicensed contractors.   CCSO worked jointly with personnel from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (FDBPR) during the one day sting to highlight the need for the public to use due care when hiring contractors.    …

On Thursday, June 8, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputies arrested a dangerous fugitive that two days earlier shot at a bail bondsman in White Springs, Florida.   A CCSO warrants Deputy received information that Damon Crosby, 39 was seen in an apartment at the Cedar Park Apartments in Lake City. Deputies and Detectives cordoned off…

On Friday, June 2 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detective Darrel Clay to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Clay has been with CCSO since 2006 and will be transferred from the Criminal Investigation Division to the Patrol Division where he will be a shift supervisor.…

Sexual Predator Address Change   In accordance with Florida Statute 775.21, this is a mandatory notification of the changing of address of a registered sexual predator in Columbia County.   Name:  Roy E. Welch Address: 284 SW Lowery Terr Lake City, FL 32028 DOB: 3/16/1955 Hair Color: Bald Eyes: Blue   The above subject was…

On Thursday, May 25, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested a Lake City woman for arson and attempted murder following a three month investigation.   The investigation began in the early morning hours of February 16, when Deputies were called to the 400 block of Thompkins Loop in unincorporated Columbia County. It was reported that…

In the late evening hours of May 20, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested a local woman for murder as they continue to piece together the events that took place earlier.   The investigation began around 6:30 pm, Saturday, when the Columbia County Combined Communication Center received a 911 call from a female stating she had shot…

On Tuesday, May 16 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detention Deputy Gregory Stapleton to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Stapleton has been with CCSO since 2013 and will remain assigned to the Detention Division where he will be a shift supervisor at the Detention Facility.…

This year the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office joins the State and Nation in recognizing the men and women in the Corrections field by participating in the “National Corrections Officers’ Week.” In 1984, President Ronald Regan signed Proclamation 5187, “National Correctional Officers’ Week”, as a way to recognize the men and women in the corrections profession.…

On Thursday, April 27, in a ceremony attended by friends, family, and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter presented three agency members with awards due to their outstanding work achievements. Sergeant Jimmy Watson, Detective Cal Fenner (Ret), and Forensic Technician Jason Massey were awarded the Sheriff’s Office Commendation Medal for their efforts in solving a…

On Wednesday, April 26, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives began a death investigation in unincorporated Columbia County.   Just after 4:30 am, CCSO Deputies responded to the 1900 block of SW Nautilus Road due to a report of an unresponsive female lying on the side of the roadway. When Deputies arrived, they discovered the female…

On Wednesday, March 22 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detention Deputy Amy Geiger to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Geiger has been with CCSO since 2013 and will remain assigned to the Detention Division where she will be a shift supervisor at the Detention Facility.…

On Monday, March 13, Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter presented an award to local man for his tremendous support to the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. In a ceremony at the Sheriff’s Office, Captain Joseph Victor USCG (Ret) was presented with the Honorary Lifetime Membership award to the Florida Sheriffs Association by Sheriff Hunter and, Debi…

Sexual Predator Address Change   In accordance with Florida Statute 775.21, this is a mandatory notification of the changing of address of a registered sexual predator in Columbia County.   Name:  David E. Bailey Address: 1482 SW Commercial Glen Lake City, FL 32025 DOB:  9/1/1974 Hair Color: Brown Eyes: Brown   The above subject was…

On Thursday, March 9, Sheriff Mark Hunter recognized a local couple for their outstanding support to the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. In a ceremony at the Sheriff’s Office, Mr. and Mrs. Phil Eunice were presented with the Crystal Star Award from the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches by Sheriff Hunter, accompanied by Bill Frye, President of…

Lake City, Fla– The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office has been asked by Fred Paul Laster’s immediate family to distribute this statement on their behalf:   “We, the immediate family of Fred Paul Laster, have gathered together at this time to support each other as we experience the intense emotions caused by the heartbreaking loss of…

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In the early morning hours of Saturday, February 25, a truck driver was arrested after he made threats and then led Deputies on a chase.   Around midnight, the Columbia County Combined Communication Center received a 911 call from a subject making threats against President Trump. The subject later identified as Ausarmaat Rahotep, 37 of…

Detectives and Agents with the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) arrested 12 child predators from Tallahassee to Lake City as part of a weeklong investigation known as Operation Cupid’s Arrow. Operation Cupid’s Arrow was a joint law enforcement operation involving local, state and federal law enforcement agencies including members of the…

On Wednesday, February 15, a White Springs man with an active arrest warrant, resisted arrest and led Deputies on a car chase.   At 3:03 p.m. the Columbia County Combined Communication Center received a report of a suspicious vehicle near U.S. 41 and NW Fiddlers Ln. The responding Deputy located the truck parked with no…

On Wednesday, December 28, the Columbia County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force served a search warrant at 112 SW Birch Glen in unincorporated Columbia County and concluded a lengthy narcotics investigation. The investigation began nearly a year ago when a group of citizens alerted the Sheriff’s Office to suspicious activity at a home in their neighborhood.…

Shortly before 4 P.M. Detective Sergeant Don Meyer was off for the day doing some Christmas shopping at the Lake City Mall. As he waked the mall interior, he saw someone he had never met, but that he quickly recognized, a wanted subject, Terrance Davis, 29.

Sergeant Meyer recognized Davis from a wanted bulletin that the FBI had send out Thursday morning alerting the Sheriff’s Office to be on the lookout for Davis because he was wanted for murder in Las Vegas.

On Tuesday, November 15, at 9 pm, the suspect, Kyle Jarod George, 24 of Lake City was captured near Hudson Street and SR 47 following an extensive manhunt.   George struck Corporal Archie Crews with a motorcycle and fled on foot. K9 teams from CCSO, FHP, and DOC began tracking George, who travelled nearly .75…

On Tuesday, November 15, at 6 pm, a Columbia County Sheriff’s Deputy was injured when he was struck by a motorcycle in the area of SW Packard Street east of SR 47 in unincorporated Lake City.   The Columbia County Combined Communication Center received a report of dirt bikes driving recklessly in the area and…

Sheriff Mark Hunter presented four agency members with awards due to their outstanding achievements. Sergeant Howard Bulthuis, Detective Chris Parker, Detective Marcella Mayo and Analyst Yvette Tyler were given the awards for 2016 cases where they preformed their duties in a manner that brought great credit on them and the agency.

A Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputy saved a child, using CPR, who had fallen in a pool and was unresponsive Thursday, October 27th. The 22 month old baby was flown to a hospital in Gainesville where she is in stable condition.

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested a Lake City man who has been on a multi county burglary spree. Over a two month period, 14 burglaries were committed by the suspect who used the same method and burglary tools. Five of the 14 burglaries were outside of Columbia County in Suwannee, Baker, Lafayette, and Union Counties.

On Friday, September 9 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted three CCSO members. Sergeant Richard Glover was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, Corporal Randy Harrison to the rank of Sergeant and Deputy Matthew Baucom to the rank of Corporal. Lieutenant Glover, who has been with…

The Columbia County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force arrested two men following an intensive 8 month long, multi-agency investigation. Task Force Detectives along with personnel from Suwannee, Gilchrist and Colquitt County Ga. Sheriff’s Offices have arrested Leroy Valdez, 36 and Leroy Haynes, 38 both from Georgia on multiple drug related charges.

On Friday, August 5th, 50 students graduated from the 5th annual Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranch Mobile Day Camps in Fort White.   These camps are sponsored by the  Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, who partners with the Youth Ranch to provide a quality camp at no cost to the citizens of our community.  The camp enables…

Sheriff Mark Hunter promotes Corporal Ronnie Daniels to the rank of Sergeant and Detention Deputy Howard Sweat to Corporal. Sergeant Daniels, who has been with CCSO since 2006, will be assigned as a watch commander at the Detention Facility and Corporal Sweat, who has been at CCSO sine 2012 will be a shift supervisor in the Detention Division.

On Wednesday, July 20, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office began a narcotics investigation when approximately 1 kilo of cocaine was found on an aircraft at HAECO Aviation Services Inc. located at 102 SE Academic Ave.   HAECO service personnel found the narcotics while servicing a Jet Blue A320 aircraft and notified CCSO. The investigation revealed…

On Saturday, July 23, a Columbia County Detention Deputy was arrested at the county detention facility when he brought in and delivered contraband to an inmate. Dillon Moore was arrested at 6:50 am and was booked on one count of delivering contraband into a detention facility.   The investigation began earlier in the week when…

On Thursday morning, July 7, Steven Shuman was captured in Folkston, Georgia. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office alerted Folkston Police that Shuman was possibly in their city based on the on-going investigation. Folkston Police also received a tip from a citizen that saw the news report on a local TV station.

A Columbia County Detention Facility inmate escaped while assigned to a work crew doing lawn maintenance at a county facility in the Fort White area. Steven Swain Shuman, 22 walked off the work site around 11:10am. He was one of three inmates working in that area. Once the supervising Detention Deputy discovered the escape, Patrol Deputies along with additional Detention Deputies responded to the area and set up a perimeter.

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives investigate a shooting that occurred on Forest Terrace in unincorporated Columbia County .Deputies were dispatched to Lake Shore Medical Center where a gunshot victim was being treated for a gunshot wound. The victim was in a vehicle driving by her boyfriend when the shooting occurred.

Sheriff Mark Hunter was given a $600 check from Elks Lodge #893 to help with expenses of two summer youth camps hosted by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches.

The camps provide two weeks of fun and education for over 120 local students. Each week long camp, one in Lake City and one in Fort White, focus’ on helping the students learn about and interact with Deputies and other first responders.

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are investigating a shooting in the 300 block of SW Tommy Lites St. in unincorporated Columbia County. At this time investigators believe this is a targeted attack and not a random act of violence.

On Friday, May 20, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are investigating a shooting in the 100 block of Tranquil Glen in unincorporated Columbia County. From the preliminary investigation, investigators believe that the weapon used is possibly a bb or pellet gun.

Detention Deputy Dewayne Smith and Captain Katina Dicks were presented the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches Silver Star awards for their financial support of the Youth Ranches for the past 15 years.

On Thursday, April 21 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Corporal Keith Spradley to the rank of Sergeant.

Local Law Enforcement agencies came together to participate in the 2016 Torch Run. The mission of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) for Special Olympics is to increase awareness and raise funds for the Special Olympics movement.

***Update***Detectives Investigate Shooting On Thursday, April 14, Detectives arrested a White Springs man for his involvement in a shootout at Munchies Food Store a day earlier. Darafael McKire, 29 of White Springs was released from the hospital

If you want to give back to your community, our volunteer unit provides an excellent means to do so. Our Citizen Service Unit is manned by volunteers and provides vital services to our community at no cost.

Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Captain Joe Lucas to the rank of Major, naming him the new Chief Deputy and Detention Deputy Chris Douglas to the rank of Captain as the Jail Administrator.

On Friday, February 12, 2016 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detention Deputy John Finley to the rank of Corporal.

On Wednesday, February 3, 2016, Columbia County School Resource Deputies completed an investigation into threatening statements made by a Columbia High School student.

On Saturday, January 30 in the early morning hours, a trio of burglars were making their rounds when their crime spree was cut short.

On Wednesday, January 27 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Corporal Murray Smith to the rank of Sergeant.

On January 12, Detectives arrested Steven Craycraft, 25 for the burglary he committed last week where he was shot by the homeowner.

On January 8, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested Dwight Tyre III, 23 on an arrest warrant for Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child.

On the night of January 7, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were called to 123 August Road in unincorporated Columbia County where a homeowner shot an intruder.

On January 6, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office was notified shortly after 4 pm that the infant had died.

Following the interview with the mother of the infant, Molly Hill, she was allowed to leave the Sheriff’s Operations Center to go to the hospital to be with her child.

On Tuesday, January 5, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into the circumstances surrounding a seriously injured baby that had been brought into the Lake City Medical Center for treatment by the baby’s mother and her boyfriend.

On Wednesday, December 30 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted three Sheriff’s Office members.

On Tuesday, December 22, patrol Deputies from Columbia County Sheriff’s Office discovered a meth lab at 941 SW Longhorn Terrace in Fort White.

On Tuesday, December 22, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office held a luncheon in honor of two valued members of the CCSO family who are retiring on December 31.

On Friday, December 18, 42 students from Eastside Elementary School toured the Sheriff’s Operation Center. The students were made up of the school’s safety patrol and student council.

On Friday, December 4 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted three Sheriff’s Office members.

On Friday, November 20 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Corporal Steven Khachigan to the rank of Sergeant.

On Monday, November 9, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office investigated a suspicious package at the main entrance of the Columbia County Courthouse prompting an evacuation of the facility.

On Wednesday, November 4, a Lake City man is in jail following a vehicle pursuit which ended with a single car crash. The driver fled the scene and was captured by deputies after a foot chase.

After receiving numerous requests to give his position on the Open Carry bill submitted to the Florida legislature, Sheriff Mark Hunter wrote the attached letter.

On Saturday, October 24 the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office investigated an early morning shooting which left one person in the hospital with a gunshot wound and the suspect behind bars.

On Friday, October 23 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Sergeant J.T. Williams to the Lieutenant.

On Wednesday, October 21, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in two new CCSO members. Mr. Aaron Rose was sworn in as a Detention Deputy and Mr. Thomas Norris was sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff.

On Tuesday, October 20, a DOC K9 team from Baker Correctional Institution located a missing 96 year old Fort White man during a search effort initiated by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.

On Friday, October 9 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted SSgt. Robert Dees to the rank of Lieutenant and Lt. Katina Dicks to Captain.

On Wednesday, October 7, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in two new CCSO members. Ms. Martha Adams was sworn in as a School Crossing Guard and Mr. Kevin Cox was sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff.

On Wednesday, September 30, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested a Lake City man on multiple charges following a vehicle pursuit. CCSO deputies were in the area of the Super 8 motel on SR 47 when they saw Christopher Jones, 43 whom they knew had a felony warrant for his arrest.

On Wednesday, September 23, personnel from the Columbia County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force uncovered a major marijuana grow operation at 1357 SW Wilson Springs Rd.

On Wednesday, September 23, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in two new CCSO members. Ms. Katherine Milligan took the oath of office for civilian employees and Mr. Jordy Stewart was sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff.

On Friday, September 11, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in a new CCSO member. Ms. Brenda Taylor Jones took the oath for civilian employees. Ms. Jones will be assigned to the Administrative Division as the Fiscal Assistant.

On Tuesday, September 8, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office recovered a large amount of stolen property taken in two separate burglaries that occurred over the weekend.

On Friday, August 21, at approximately 2 pm, Deputies responded to a burglary in progress at 249 NE Meeks St. in the unincorporated county area. When Deputies arrived, the burglar had fled the area on foot.

On Friday, August 21, Sheriff Mark Hunter presented a Detention Deputy with the Sheriff’s Office Commendation Medal for her actions on July 21, 2015 which thwarted the escape of a jail inmate.

On Friday, July 31, at 5:18 pm the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office was called to 427 SW Breckenridge Lane near Fort White due to a missing 10 year old child. Family members of Katelynn Mosher, 10 reported her as a runaway, which prompted the search.

On Friday, July 31, the Columbia County Detention Facility was host to a luncheon in honor of one of their retiring members. Ms. Sharon Parker, the administrative secretary for the Detention Division of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, retired with more than 28 years of service.

On Wednesday, July 29, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in a new CCSO member.

On Tuesday, July 28, at approximately 2 pm, Deputies responded to a stabbing at 349 NE Clara Glen in the unincorporated county area.

On Tuesday, July 28, at approximately 10:30 am, a Columbia County Deputy Sheriff was involved in a shooting at 4204 SW Pinemount Rd in the unincorporated county area.

On Thursday, July 23, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in two new CCSO members. Mr. Chris Douglas was sworn in as a Detention Deputy and Ms. Ashley Stalvey took the oath of office for civilian employees.

On Wednesday, July 22 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detention Deputy Raymond Brown to the rank of Corporal.

On Tuesday, July 14, CCSO detention facility personnel learned of an elaborate escape plan at the Columbia County Detention Facility and took steps to prevent it.

On Thursday, July 16, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in a new CCSO member. Mr. Roger Moody took the oath of office for civilian employees.

On Thursday, July 9, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested two men following a dramatic vehicle pursuit which began in north Columbia County on I75.

The body found by K9 search teams Friday July 3 has been positively identified as the missing Baker County woman, Ms. Sharon Jackson. The cause of death has not yet been determined and the case is still active and ongoing.

On Friday, July 3, at approximately 11:30 am, K9 teams from First Response Search Team out of Tallahassee found human remains while searching for a missing person.

On Wednesday, July 1 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Deputy Sheriff Brian Lucas to the rank of Corporal.

On Thursday, June 18, at 8:09 pm, an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility was found unresponsive in a cell. Detention personnel began CPR and alerted EMS, who arrived and pronounced the inmate dead.

On Thursday, June 18, at 8:09 pm, an inmate at the Columbia County Detention Facility was found unresponsive in a cell. Detention personnel began CPR and alerted EMS, who arrived and pronounced the inmate dead.

On Monday, June 8, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into a deadly altercation that left one man dead and another in jail.

On Wednesday, June 3, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in three new CCSO members. Ms. Ranisha Williams was sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff, Mr. Justin Porter sworn in as a Detention Deputy and Mrs. Stephanie Massey took the oath of office for civilian employees.

On Thursday, May 28 at approximately 10:30 am, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office responded to 359 NE Williams Rd due to a missing endangered female. A home health care worker alerted CCSO that Myra L. Williams, 62 had left her home on foot and could not be located.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has released the annual crime report. The statistics are from a reporting period of January 2014 to December 2014.

Detectives have identified the victim as Gewedolyn Cart, 72 and next of kin has been notified. A presumptive ID on the male suspect is Robert Hupp, 79.

On Wednesday, May 13 the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into the death of a man and woman at 419 Tribble Street in unincorporated Columbia County.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement continues to investigate the death of a 16-month-old female child who was found deceased in a vehicle at 111 SW Stafford Court.

On Tuesday, May 12, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office responded to 111 SW Stafford Court to investigate a 16 month old infant’s death.

On Monday, May 11, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office had a surprise visit from Troop FL8811 of the American Heritage Girls.

On Wednesday, May 6 the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office began a missing person’s investigation on a 61 year old woman at 158 SW Leonard Terrace in unincorporated Columbia County.

On Tuesday, May 5, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announced the dates for its two summer mobile day camps for kids ages 8-13.

On Friday, May 1 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Ms. Cathy Davis to the position of Director of Human Resources.

On Monday, April 27, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office held a luncheon in honor of two valued members of the CCSO family who are retiring after many years with the agency. Sheriff Mark Hunter took the opportunity to point out that between them both they have over 60 years of service to the Sheriff’s Office and Columbia County.

On Monday, April 20, Sheriff Mark Hunter presented two deputies with the Distinguished Service Award for their heroic actions which resulted in saving a life during a house fire.

On Monday, April 20, Sheriff Mark Hunter gave three members of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Service Unit commendations for their exceptional work with the agency’s Crime Scene Unit.

On Wednesday, April 1, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in Mr. Dillon Moore as a Detention Deputy.

On Friday, March 27 at a retirement luncheon Sheriff Mark Hunter presented Detention Deputy Linda Harrington a plaque and a heartfelt thank you for her 13 years of dedicated service to the Sheriff’s Office and this community.

On Friday, March 27 in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter promoted Detective Todd Lussier to the rank of Sergeant.

On Tuesday, March 17, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office officially retired two of its canines after years of faithful and productive service to the community.

On Saturday, March 7, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into a kidnapping, rape and false imprisonment case which uncovered a local human trafficking group.

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement are asking for the public’s help with any information regarding this cold case homicide.

On Friday, February 27, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office officially welcomed two new members to the agency’s K9 unit during a ceremony attended by friends, family and Sheriff’s Office personnel.

On Friday, February 27, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter swore in two new deputies. Mr. Aaron Green was sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff and Mr. Cornelius Lorton as a Detention Deputy.

On Thursday, February 19, FFA Leadership from Fort White and Columbia High School toured the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center.

On Wednesday, February 11, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputies arrested two Alabama men on a host of charges following an altercation and vehicle pursuit.