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Law Enforcement Acts to Combat Crime in Hillsborough County

Law enforcement agencies collaborating to combat crime in Hillsborough County.

News Summary

In December, law enforcement agencies in Hillsborough County executed a joint operation aimed at addressing rising crime. Notable arrests include a traffic stop involving 19-year-old Brandon Landaverde, who was found with a loaded firearm. Additionally, authorities apprehended Curtis Christopher Williams in connection with a New Year’s Eve shooting that resulted in a death. The collaboration between agencies emphasizes the commitment to community safety and the urgent need to tackle crime in the area.

Tampa News: Law Enforcement Strikes Back Against Crime in Hillsborough County

In a decisive move to tackle the rising crime trends in Hillsborough County, law enforcement agencies came together for a joint operation in December that led to some significant arrests and the interruption of dangerous criminal activity. With the collaboration of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tampa Police Department, and the Florida Department of Corrections, the operation aimed squarely at improving the safety of the community and catching those who are trying to break the law.

Turning Up the Heat on Crime

One of the most notable arrests during the operation took place during a traffic stop at the intersection of North 15th Street and East Fowler Avenue. Officers pulled over 19-year-old Brandon Landaverde, who is no stranger to trouble with the law—he’s actually a three-time convicted felon! When the deputies searched his vehicle, they came across a loaded firearm. This discovery led to a series of charges for Landaverde, including:

Carrying Concealed Firearm
Felon in Possession of a Firearm (x2)
Violation of Probation related to Fraud-Credit Card
Violation of Probation for Unlawful Carrying Concealed Firearm
Violation of Probation for Fraud Use of Personal ID
Violation of Probation for Carrying Concealed Firearm
Violation of Probation for Obstructing Crime Investigation

The numerous charges underscore just how serious the situation is, and it highlights the effectiveness of the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement agencies.

Justice Served in New Year’s Eve Shooting

As if that wasn’t enough action for one operation, authorities also made strides in the aftermath of a deadly incident that occurred on New Year’s Eve. In connection with a shooting at the Tally Ho Bar Lounge & Grill, they arrested 39-year-old Curtis Christopher Williams with the help of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. Williams was apprehended in Pinellas Park without a hitch.

Williams faces serious charges for his alleged role in the tragic incident that left 45-year-old Joseph Reese dead. Reese, unfortunately, sustained gunshot wounds and was transported to the hospital but sadly did not survive. The call reporting the shooting came in at 1:43 a.m. on January 1, and the investigation swiftly followed, leading to Williams’ arrest.

The Community’s Safety is a Priority

The alarming rise in crime in Tampa and surrounding areas has been a significant concern, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has been vocal about its commitment to keeping the community safe. The partnership between various law enforcement agencies is proving to be essential in addressing crime and ensuring that justice is served swiftly. The message from the sheriff’s office is clear: they will stop at nothing to seek justice and make Hillsborough County a safer place for all its residents.

As we move further into 2025, the hope is that these joint operations continue to make a meaningful impact on local crime rates and foster a sense of safety and security within the community. After all, a united front against crime not only helps in apprehending criminals but also reassures the residents that their safety is a top priority.