On Dec. 9, 2008, Governor Charlie Crist directed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to investigate 32 unidentified graves at the Dozier School for Boys in Marianna. Governor Crist charged FDLE with investigating:
- the location of the graves and the entity that owned or operated the property at the time the graves were placed;
- identification, where possible, of the remains of those buried on the site; and
- if any crimes were committed, and if possible, the perpetrators of those crimes.
On May 15, 2009, FDLE released a comprehensive report detailing the findings of the first two items.
On Jan. 29, FDLE concluded its investigation into the third item: allegations surrounding criminal abuse of students at the school. During the course of this portion of the investigation, FDLE interviewed six former staff members and more than 100 former students and their relatives regarding beatings, methods of discipline and sexual abuse alleged to have taken place at the school. FDLE also conducted a forensic examination of the White House building, which is the location discipline was typically administered to students.
The investigative findings were provided to State Attorney Glenn Hess of the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit. On Feb. 25, State Attorney Hess advised there is insufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges.
FDLE’s investigative summary and State Attorney Hess’ letter of declination is attached. The full investigative report is available upon request.
For Further Information Contact:
Heather Smith, Kristen Chernosky, or Mike Morrison
FDLE Office of Public Information
(850) 410-7001