BUNNELL, Fla. — A trespassing complaint involving suspected squatters at a Bunnell property led Flagler County sheriff’s deputies to arrest three people, including two fugitives wanted for probation violations involving fentanyl and methamphetamine.
The arrests occurred on the evening of Wednesday, October 21, 2026, after deputies responded to a property on Hickory Street.
Those arrested were Melissa Byrd, 38, Gage Watts, 30, and Kobe Watts, 28, all of Bunnell. Gage and Kobe Watts are brothers.
Deputies Locate First Fugitive During Trespassing Investigation
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO), deputies were responding to a complaint about squatters when the Flagler County Emergency Communications Center notified them that Byrd, who had an active arrest warrant, was known to reside at the property.
Byrd was wanted for violating probation stemming from a previous arrest for possession of fentanyl.
Deputies located Byrd and took her into custody.
Following her arrest, deputies learned that another wanted fugitive, Gage Watts, was inside the main residence on the property.
Watts was wanted for violating drug probation following an arrest for possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine.
The FCSO Fugitive Apprehension Unit had previously been searching for Watts and had confirmed through investigative efforts that he was hiding at the location.
Deputies Coordinate Arrest of Second Fugitive
According to the sheriff’s office, Gage Watts had a history of violence, resisting arrest and previously possessing a weapon.
Because of that history, deputies coordinated a response involving the Fugitive Apprehension Unit, Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit, K-9 Unit, Unmanned Aircraft Systems Unit and patrol deputies.
While deputies were preparing to serve the warrant, Gage Watts’ younger brother, Kobe Watts, exited the residence and approached officers.
Kobe told deputies that his brother was not at the property and that he had neither seen nor heard from him in more than a month.
Deputies told Kobe they knew Gage was inside and repeatedly warned him that he could be arrested for interfering with their efforts to serve the warrant.
Despite those warnings, Kobe continued telling deputies that he was the only person inside the residence.
Deputies then approached the front door and ordered Gage to come outside.
Within minutes, Gage opened the door and was taken into custody. Deputies also arrested Kobe.
Methamphetamine Found During Search of Third Suspect
During a search of Kobe Watts, deputies reported that a clear plastic bag fell from his pants.
Kobe then told deputies he might have narcotics inside one of his socks.
A further search uncovered a piece of paper containing narcotics residue that later tested positive for methamphetamine.
Deputies also recovered a bottle cap and cotton ball, items the sheriff’s office said are commonly used as filters before injecting drugs.
Kobe was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting an officer without violence.
Sheriff Rick Staly Comments on Arrests
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said the incident demonstrated how a routine call for service can lead to additional arrests.
“Sometimes you never know what surprises a call for service can bring. This started as a call to evict some squatters and led to the arrests of two fugitives, plus a third career criminal who was dumb enough to lie to deputies and get himself arrested with drugs in his boot,” Staly said.
“Obviously, the apples didn’t fall far from the tree as both brothers are career criminals and frequent visitors to the Green Roof Inn or state prison. I commend everyone involved who worked together to get them off the streets and hold them accountable.”
Both Brothers Have Extensive Criminal Histories
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, both Watts brothers have extensive criminal records.
Gage Watts has been arrested 11 previous times on charges that include trafficking in methamphetamine, sale of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of fentanyl, possession of marijuana, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, resisting an officer without violence and driving under the influence with property damage.
His previous arrests resulted in convictions for four felonies and eight misdemeanors. He has served two state prison sentences.
Kobe Watts has been arrested 18 previous times on charges including trafficking in fentanyl, sale of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, burglary with assault or battery, grand theft, criminal mischief involving at least $1,000 in property damage, resisting an officer without violence and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.
His criminal history includes convictions for five felonies and three misdemeanors, and he has served one state prison sentence.
All Three Booked Into Flagler County Jail
Byrd, Gage Watts and Kobe Watts were transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility.
Their custody and bond statuses were reported as follows:
- Melissa Byrd, 38: Arrested on an active probation-violation warrant. Held without bond.
- Gage Watts, 30: Arrested on an active drug probation-violation warrant. Held without bond.
- Kobe Watts, 28: Charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting an officer without violence. Bond set at $7,000.