The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Intelligence Unit has located and arrested a Spring Hill man who removed his ankle monitor and fled during his trial last week.
Jarae N. Crussell, 41, was apprehended Tuesday, April 8, according to the sheriff’s office.
Crussell had appeared in district court on April 3 for trial on charges of aggravated battery and felon in possession of a handgun causing serious bodily injury. During a break in the proceedings, Crussell, who was out on bond, returned home, cut off his ankle monitor and fled the area.
Despite his absence, the trial continued. Crussell was found guilty on both charges. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and the U.S. Marshals Task Force was called in to assist in the search.
Crussell’s legal trouble began on Feb. 19, 2022, when Hernando County deputies responded to a shooting in the parking lot of Mermaids Lounge, located at 4564 Commercial Way in Spring Hill. Witnesses called 911 to report that a man had been shot multiple times outside the establishment. Two suspects—described as an unidentified Black male and an unidentified Hispanic male—fled the scene before deputies arrived.
Bar patrons provided aid to the victim until EMS arrived. The victim was transported to a local trauma center and was expected to recover from his injuries.
Following an investigation, Crussell was identified as a suspect. A warrant was issued on May 13, 2022, for charges of aggravated battery with great bodily harm, possess/discharge/injury, and felon in possession of a firearm. Crussell was arrested a week later, on May 20, 2022, at his place of employment in Pasco County.
The investigation remains active, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers. Tipsters will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
Hernando County Crime Stoppers can be reached by phone at 1-866-990-TIPS (8477), by cell at **TIPS, or online at www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com.
