As news of a “serial rapist” continues to grip our otherwise peaceful community with fear, please rest assured knowing that the Apalachicola Police Department (APD), the Franklin County Sheriff Office (FCSO), and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) are working together to ensure the safety of all the residents of Apalachicola.
During a span of 7-days, from Sept 5 - Sept 12 the APD received three different complaints of sexual assault upon a female within the Apalachicola community. One of the victims has since refused to cooperate with law enforcement as they have stepped up their investigation into the allegations.
I have impressed upon Police Chief Bobby Varnes how important it is to get the assailant off the streets, and he has assured me that the quick processing of crime scene evidence should lead to an immediate arrest.
On Monday, September 13, investigators couriered DNA evidence gathered at the crime scene to the FDLE lab in Tallahassee for analysis.
However, until an arrest is actually made, please take precautions by remaining aware of your surroundings and by avoiding situations that put you at risk, such as walking alone at night or leaving doors and windows unlocked.
Other ways to stay safe is to immediate report to the authorities any suspicious person or activity in your neighborhood by calling 911.
Sincerely,
Van W. Johnson, Sr., Mayor
The Historic City of Apalachicola
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