Sumter County sheriff’s deputies are investigating the apparent homicide of an 18-year-old found dead Wednesday in the Green Swamp area off State Road 471.
Charlie Roberts was initially reported missing to the Lakeland Police Department after a family member lost contact with him.
The Sumter County deputies conducted an “exhaustive search,” including the use of drones, ATVs, K-9s and a helicopter in an effort to locate Roberts. The sheriff’s office was aided by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
His death has been classified a homicide.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at (352) 569-1680 or to remain anonymous contact Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).