Sheriff Blasts Out Warning On Local Predator John Stapleton
Bradford County Sheriff Gordon Smith took to Facebook on Tuesday to name John Stapleton as this week’s “Sexual Predator of the Week,” putting neighbors on notice that a registered predator lives in the community. The brief post pointed residents to state records for photos and detailed information, stressed that the listing exists for public safety and not for harassment or vandalism, and included the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) hotline for tips or corrections. Anyone with worries or questions, the sheriff said, should run those through official channels.
What the sheriff’s post said
In the Facebook notice, Sheriff Smith specifically identified John Stapleton and reminded residents that the full listing, photos and reporting options are all hosted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, as shared by the Bradford County Sheriff. The post published FDLE’s hotline, 1-888-357-7332, for anyone who believes something on the listing is wrong or has information to report.
The sheriff also repeated a familiar warning: the information is there to keep the public informed and safe, not to give anyone license to threaten Stapleton or damage property. Smith framed the weekly spotlight as a transparency and safety measure for Bradford County residents.
Where to verify the registry
Residents who want to check details for themselves can use FDLE’s public Sexual Offender and Predator search tool for photos, addresses and registration information. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, those records are compiled from corrections data, motor vehicle files and local law enforcement agencies…