While Florida’s crime rate has steadily dropped over the last few years, homicides in Volusia and Flagler counties hit a 15-year high last year. In all, 32 people were killed in the two counties in 2017, an increase of 19 from the previous year.
In April, a bike gang member was found with knife wounds all over his body in an alley near the rear door of a bar. In July, a Florida woman killed her former boyfriend and cut off his arms and legs, which she discarded 20 miles away from the murder. In November, a man stabbed his ex-girlfriend after an argument. In December, authorities found the body of a missing woman in the trunk of a vehicle that was used to flee from deputies after a short chase.
There was at least one homicide every month last year in the two-county region, with May being the bloodiest—5 people were killed. The longest stretch without a murder was 35 days. According to authorities, the majority of the homicides involved victims killed by a relative. Most involved firearms and many were drug-related.
“It’s a weird thing. You can have strategies in place one year and get 10 and the next year you have the same exact strategies in place and you get 32,” said Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood.
At Buckmaster & Ellzey, our team of Daytona Beach criminal defense attorneys are ready to help those caught in the criminal justice system. If you are facing criminal charges, contact us immediately to discuss your legal options. We defend all types of criminal charges, including domestic violence, drug crimes, theft, warrants, and driving under the influence.
Call (888) 785-6548 or contact us online to set up a consultation.