On Wednesday, Duval County Circuit Judge Michael Sharrit issued a decisive order requiring the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) to provide the family of Charles Faggart with the surveillance footage and investigative reports surrounding his death. The ruling comes after more than 18 months of unanswered questions for the grieving family.
Family’s long‑awaited request
Faggart was taken from the Duval County jail to a hospital on April 7, 2025, and died three days later. His mother, Tracey Karpas, has repeatedly asked for answers, saying she will “fight to the grave” for the truth. The family originally filed a public‑records request under Florida’s Public Records Act for video, incident reports, and other evidence more than a year ago.
JSO argued the records should remain sealed, citing an active FBI investigation. However, Judge Sharrit found the agency’s claim insufficient, noting that neither the FBI nor the U.S. Attorney’s Office had appeared in court to explain how disclosure could harm the probe.
Judge’s order and immediate impact
In his ruling, Sharrit stated, “At some point I need guidance on that… what’s the court supposed to do without that information?” He concluded that the agency’s testimony was not enough to justify keeping the records from the family. The judge ordered that the video and reports be delivered to the family’s attorneys for private viewing without delay.
Following the decision, a JSO spokesperson confirmed that the eight correction officers and one sergeant involved in the incident have been reassigned to non‑inmate‑facing positions in the courthouse, Records Unit, and Property and Evidence Unit. The officers remain without direct inmate contact while the investigation proceeds.
Medical findings and unanswered questions
The Florida Tribune, a Jacksonville Today partner, obtained medical records showing Faggart suffered multiple facial and rib fractures, extensive bruising, severe kidney and liver damage, and a stun‑gun barb lodged in his back—details JSO had not disclosed.
While the FBI released a brief statement after the ruling—“The FBI does not release investigative details to preserve the integrity of the investigation”—the family and community continue to demand full transparency.
Community response and call for accountability
“Do your job. Tell the truth,” Karpas urged, echoing the family’s resolve to pursue every legal avenue until justice is achieved. Local faith leaders and community members have expressed support for the family’s quest for answers, emphasizing the importance of accountability in law‑enforcement operations.
The ruling underscores the judiciary’s role in safeguarding public‑record rights and ensuring that law‑enforcement agencies remain answerable to the citizens they serve. As the investigation continues, the release of the records is expected to shed light on the circumstances that led to Faggart’s tragic death.
Original reporting: Jacksonville Today — read the source article.
