The State Attorney’s Office 20th Judicial Circuit is made up of more than 300 employees who work hard each day to keep Southwest Florida safe. As State Attorney I am dismayed by the factually incorrect information being bantered about. I am sworn as a public officer to uphold the law and as State Attorney I also feel it is important to be sure my staff and this office is not denigrated by anyone.
On June 25, 2018 I referred a complaint submitted to this office in reference to Chris Crowley to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for review. At the same time I contacted the Governor for an executive assignment to another circuit. These steps are not unusual and are a measure I can take as State Attorney so that an independent review can be done. The 10th Judicial Circuit is handling this issue. My office did not investigate and is not prosecuting this case nor have we had involvement with a filing decision. Attached to this release you will see the documentation of the above.
I am incensed to find out that Mr. Crowley through his attorney chose to turn himself into authorities at the exact day and time of a funeral starting for a fallen officer. He owes the family of the officer an apology.
Click here to view the FDLE Letter.
Samantha Syoen
Communications Director
State Attorney’s Office
239-533-1125
ssyoen@sao20.org