Deondre Shykur Clayton, 30, of Lake City, was arrested Wednesday, May 28, 2025, after a disturbance led to charges of child abuse and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Lake City Police Department officers responded to an apartment on SW Windsong Circle around 8:45 P.M. regarding a domestic dispute and concerns for the welfare of children. The reporting party stated her boyfriend, Clayton, refused to allow her access to their children and had made threats to harm one of them if police arrived.
Officers successfully de-escalated the situation, convincing Clayton to exit the apartment peacefully. The children were found safe and unharmed inside.
Further investigation by detectives revealed allegations that Clayton had struck one of the children the previous day, causing visible bruising. The child, who has developmental challenges, identified Clayton as the assailant. Officers also discovered a hidden Glock .40 caliber handgun with multiple magazines and ammunition. Clayton, a convicted felon with five prior felony convictions, was the only adult with access to the weapon.
Clayton was transported to the Columbia County Detention Center.
“This department takes every allegation of child endangerment seriously,” stated Chief of Police Gerald Butler. “The safety of our children is paramount, and we will continue to act swiftly and decisively to protect them. We are also committed to holding accountable anyone who unlawfully possesses or misuses firearms in our community.”
Anyone with information on any crime is encouraged to contact the Lake City Police Department at (386) 752-4343 or report information anonymously through the LCPD TIPS line at (386) 719-2068 or Crime Stoppers of Columbia County at (386) 754-7099.
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