News Summary
In a shocking turn of events, Bill Culpepper Jr., a deputy with the Leon County School District, and his son, Garret Culpepper, were arrested in connection with a significant drug trafficking operation in Tallahassee. The investigation revealed their extensive involvement in marijuana production and sales, as well as possession of various illegal firearms and drugs. Both faces multiple serious charges, and an internal investigation has led to Bill’s termination from his position. As the case unfolds, the local community awaits further developments regarding this startling incident.
Tallahassee, Florida – Bill Culpepper Jr., a 56-year-old resource deputy for the Leon County School District, and his 25-year-old son, Garret Culpepper, were arrested in connection with a significant drug operation that was reportedly run out of Garret’s home in Tallahassee. Both face serious charges as the investigation illuminates a deep involvement in drug production and trafficking.
Bill Culpepper is facing multiple charges, including first, second, and third-degree felonies related to public order crimes. He has also been charged in Gadsden County with possession of weapons including a short-barreled rifle and a machine gun. Meanwhile, Garret Culpepper has been charged with marijuana trafficking, specifically exceeding 25 pounds or 300 plants, as well as drug possession, drug production, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
In addition to the Culpeppers, Sylvia Moore, Garret’s girlfriend, was also arrested and is facing charges of drug possession, marijuana trafficking, and possession of paraphernalia. The dramatic turn of events began with an investigation that started in March 2024, which unveiled evidence suggesting that Garret was selling a substantial amount of marijuana, along with products containing THC.
During the arrests, law enforcement confiscated over 40 pounds of marijuana, 12 pounds of THC concentrate, more than 2.5 pounds of various other drugs including cocaine, and 12 firearms. Approximately $60,000 in cash was also seized during the operation. Investigators indicated that a confidential informant revealed that Garret Culpepper had adopted the street name “Immune,” operating under the belief that his father’s position in law enforcement would provide him with immunity from arrest.
Adding to the surreal nature of the operation, Garret had directed his father to park his marked sheriff’s vehicle in his driveway, presumably as a deterrent for theft. Furthermore, it was discovered that marijuana and illicit drug proceeds were stored at Bill Culpepper’s residence. When a search warrant was executed at Bill’s home in Havana, law enforcement officials uncovered various fully automatic rifles and a safe containing nearly $70,000, which was accessed using a key obtained from Garret’s home.
Additionally, many materials utilized for marijuana cultivation were found in the attic of Bill’s house, including a marijuana bong with residual traces. Following the arrests, both Bill and Garret Culpepper, along with Sylvia Moore, appeared in front of Leon County Judge Monique Richardson, who assigned bond amounts of $52,500 for Bill, $17,500 for Garret, and $11,000 for Sylvia. All three individuals have been prohibited from making any contact with one another throughout the legal proceedings.
In light of these events, Bill Culpepper was placed on administrative leave on Wednesday morning while an internal affairs investigation was initiated, though he was officially terminated hours later. The school board announced that a temporary School Resource Officer would take Bill’s place at Woodville Pre-K through eighth grade until a permanent replacement is found.
The investigation led by the Tallahassee Police Department remains active and ongoing as authorities pursue additional details regarding the Culpeppers’ operations. As developments unfold, the implications of this case within the community are yet to be fully realized.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Tallahassee.com: Leon County School Deputy Facing Felony Charges
- WTXL: Leon County Deputy and Son Facing Drug Trafficking Charges
- Tallahassee Reports: TPD Announces Arrests in Drug Trafficking
- Google Search: Leon County Drug Trafficking
- Florida Phoenix: Prosecutor Investigating Hope Florida Foundation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
