Months after a fatal shooting in Sanford, a man who claimed he acted in self-defense has been arrested. The Sanford Police Department announced the arrest of Jocquise Lavarsea Jarrells, 24, charging him with first-degree premeditated homicide in the death of Christopher Lamar Houston, 23. The shooting incident occurred back in June, with Houston arriving at HCA Lake Monroe, suffering from gunshot wounds. According to the report by WESH, it was near the area of 12th Street and Pecan Avenue where the altercation reportedly took place.
After the incident, Jarrells himself contacted law enforcement, stating that he had shot Houston in self-defense. However, Sanford police's investigation has led them to a different conclusion. "Based on the investigation, Sanford Police Investigators could not substantiate Jarrells’ claim of self-defense," said a release obtained by ClickOrlando. This determination was due to witness testimonies and evidence at the scene that showed Houston was not a threat to Jarrells during the incident.
Consequently, Jarrells was taken into custody yesterday. He was booked into the John E. Polk Correctional Facility, awaiting further legal proceedings.
As the investigation continues, detectives are encouraging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Information can be shared by contacting the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline at (800) 423-8477. Crimeline offers a cash reward of up to $5,000 for tips that lead to the solving of homicide cases.
