Englewood Search Warrant Uncovers Numerous Drugs and Firearms
January 22, 2024 – Englewood, FL
Sizeable amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and other controlled substances were seized as a result of a search warrant in Englewood on Friday along with eight firearms.
On Friday January 19th, the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, along with the Fugitive Apprehension and Community Policing Units, conducted a search warrant at 1601 Placida Road in Englewood. This was the culmination of a several months-long investigation that began in October of 2023. As a result of this search warrant, two subjects, William R. Gale (10/13/1953) and Jody L. Strattard (02/09/1979), were arrested on numerous drug charges
- Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell
- Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell
- Possession of Controlled Substance without – Prescription (Alprazolam)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Possession of a Controlled Substance without Prescription (Fentanyl)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance without Prescription (Methamphetamine)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance without Prescription (Alprazolam)
- Possession of Cocaine
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
While deputies were executing the search warrant, both Gale and Strattard were detained and questioned
Due to rain fall, Gale was placed into a CCSO vehicle, where he proceeded to attempt to conceal a plastic bag containing what appeared to be cocaine between the center console and seat. This attempt was witnessed by deputies and immediately addressed. Gale admitted to his attempts and confirmed that the substance inside the bag was in fact cocaine.
Upon completion of the search warrant, 35 grams of suspected cocaine, approximately 493 grams of suspected marijuana, 2.4 grams of suspected Alprazolam (Xanax), as well as suspected methamphetamine and fentanyl were found and seized. Additionally, eight firearms were located within the residence and also seized. Gale and Strattard were arrested and transported to the Charlotte County Jail on the above charges.
“I want to commend my deputies for their continued efforts in the battle to remove illegal narcotics from Charlotte County. Let this be a lesson to any who are still dealing or using in my county – get the help you need or get out. It’s a matter of time before you find yourself in cuffs, too.”
– SHERIFF BILL PRUMMELL
William R. Gale is being held in the Chalotte County Jail without bond, and Jody L. Strattard is being held on $22,500 bond.