CITRUS COUNTY, FL – In the early hours of Thursday, December 11, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office responded to a serious domestic incident on Gospel Island in Inverness.
Neighbors reported that an elderly woman appeared at their door seeking help after sustaining multiple stab wounds. Deputies arrived quickly and provided immediate first aid before arranging transport to a regional hospital. The woman is now recovering from non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators identified the suspect as the victim’s husband, 76-year-old Dennis Henry Cleerdin, who remained inside the residence and initially refused to communicate with law enforcement. Deputies learned that Cleerdin suffers from a cognitive disability consistent with dementia, which complicated efforts to safely resolve the situation.
Due to the seriousness of the incident, specialized units, including SWAT, Aviation, and Crisis Negotiators, were deployed. After repeated attempts to establish contact failed, SWAT entered the home and took Cleerdin into custody without further incident.
Sheriff David Vincent praised the deputies and specialized units for their coordinated response. “This case highlights the diligent work and professionalism of our deputies, specialized units, and support teams who came together to bring a dangerous situation to a safe resolution,” Sheriff Vincent said. “Our thoughts are with the victim and her family, and we hope she makes a full and speedy recovery.”
Following a medical evaluation for minor injuries, Cleerdin was booked into the Citrus County Detention Facility and faces a charge of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon on a Victim Over 65 (Domestic).
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