A teenager accused of killing a Citadel cadet and his best friend in Florida has a criminal record dating back to 2021. Authorities say he had faced multiple charges but often avoided significant punishment before this incident.
Details of the Incident
Dustin Rose, 19, and Samson Campbell, 18, were found dead on July 29 at around 10:40 p.m. The two were discovered in a vacant lot in DeLand, Florida. Police obtained an arrest warrant for a 17-year-old boy, who was apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Service.
The three individuals were known to one another, though details of their relationship remain unclear. The teen suspect has a history of criminal activity, including assault and weapon charges.
Teen’s Criminal History
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood detailed the teen’s lengthy rap sheet, which lists charges such as aggravated battery, carrying a concealed weapon, drug possession, and more. These charges often resulted in probation or were dismissed.
“We’re talking about aggravated battery and assault with a deadly weapon, battery, vehicle theft, trespassing, and resisting an officer since 2021,” Chitwood said.
Criticism arose concerning the lack of prosecution, with State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit, Monique Worrell, being blamed for not holding the teen accountable earlier. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier also criticized the soft crime policies, calling them ineffective.
Legal Proceedings
The teen, who remains unnamed as he hasn’t been charged as an adult, now faces two counts of second-degree murder. R.J. Larizza, the state attorney of the Seventh Judicial Circuit, mentioned the likelihood of the teen being charged as an adult.
Furthermore, the suspect’s father was also arrested as an accessory after the fact.
Impact on Families
Rose’s mother described her son, a member of the South Carolina National Guard, as a light in their family. She expressed deep sorrow over his loss. Rachel Rose shared that her son was pursuing a career in the military, fulfilling a childhood dream.
Campbell had been visiting DeLand temporarily following the death of a family pet. His aunt, Karen Chobin, explained his connection to the area and relationship with Rose. The two were in DeLand to spread the pet’s ashes.
The deaths of Rose and Campbell have deeply affected their families and the local community.
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