FLORAL CITY, FL – Sheriff Mike Prendergast of the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office has responded to a series of articles by the Citrus County Chronicle, which he states inaccurately depicted the Derby Oaks Community as crime-ridden.
Sheriff Prendergast clarified that the reported crime in Derby Oaks has decreased over the past three years. He countered the Chronicle’s portrayal, stating that if accurate data had been requested, the reporting would reflect a reduction in neighborhood crime rather than fabrications.
Refuting specific claims in the articles, he noted that a carjacking and an arson incident, reported as occurring in Derby Oaks, were inaccurately associated with the community. The carjacking occurred in downtown Floral City, committed by individuals from Venezuela with no ties to Derby Oaks or the country. They were arrested in a different county following the incident. The arson took place off Trails End Road, not in Derby Oaks.
Sheriff Prendergast emphasized that these incidents are not indicative of a local crime problem but rather part of broader national issues, including illegal immigration and mental health challenges. He shared crime statistics for Derby Oaks: eight cases in 2021, five in 2022, and two so far this year, including petty theft and burglary. Other crimes, like domestic battery and online frauds, have been reported but are isolated or out of jurisdiction.
Addressing allegations of drug houses and code enforcement complaints, Sheriff Prendergast explained the collaboration between the Sheriff’s Office and County Code Enforcement to legally address such issues. He highlighted the multifaceted approach of the Sheriff’s Office in tackling neighborhood problems, involving arrests, behavioral health services, and utilizing all available resources.
The Sheriff’s Office actively engages with the community to understand and address concerns, as illustrated by a recent meeting with residents. The Sheriff’s Office focuses on evidence-based practices and operates within the parameters of the Constitution and Florida State Statute. It also collaborates with other government and non-governmental organizations to improve community quality of life.