Office of The State Attorney, Fifth Judicial Circuit, Florida
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Serving the Citizens of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion, and Sumter Counties
Office of The State Attorney, Fifth Judicial Circuit, Florida
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Serving the Citizens of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion, and Sumter Counties

Newsroom

JUSTICE IN ACTION, FIFTH SAO’S FIRST EVER ANNUAL REPORT

(Fifth Judicial Circuit, FL) State Attorney Bill Gladson of the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office (SAO) announces the release of his office’s first-ever Annual Report highlight a historic year of service and public safety.

The report reflects a year marked by significant courtroom successes, meaningful community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the citizens of the Fifth Judicial Circuit.

“Our mission has always been simple: seek justice, protect victims, and keep our communities safe,” said State Attorney Bill Gladson. “This report showcases the extraordinary work of our prosecutors, investigators, victim advocates, and professional staff who serve our communities every day. We believe transparency builds trust, and this report demonstrates our commitment to both.”

Among the report’s highlights, the office ranked No. 1 in the State of Florida for prison admissions, reflecting the office’s continued focus on holding violent and repeat offenders accountable and ensuring those who threaten public safety face appropriate consequences.

The report also highlights several noteworthy prosecutions from 2025, including:

  • High-profile homicides and violent crime convictions;
  • Successful prosecutions of child predators and offenders who preyed upon vulnerable victims;
  • Major narcotics trafficking and organized crime cases;
  • Significant DUI manslaughter, sexual battery, and repeat violent offender prosecutions that resulted in landmark sentences.

Beyond the courtroom, the report illustrates the office’s commitment to prevention and public service through extensive community outreach. Throughout 2025, members of the office participated in educational programs, crime prevention initiatives, victim advocacy events, youth engagement programs, and senior safety presentation, as well as partnered with various law enforcement agencies, schools, and community organizations across the circuit.   

The inaugural Annual Report was entirely developed in-house and serves as a reflection of the office’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and public service.

The full 2025 Annual Report is available on the SAO’s website at sao5.org, under the Community tab, click Annual Report.

Published on 08/03/2026.