Deputy Timothy Poole cleared in Charlotte County fatal shooting

On September 25, 2025, Charlotte County Deputy First Class Timothy Poole shot and killed 50‑year‑old Daniel Burch at Burch’s home in the Deep Creek subdivision near Port Charlotte, Florida. According to the department’s body‑worn camera, Poole first attempted to subdue Burch with a Taser, but Burch seized the officer’s weapon, prompting Poole to fire.

The State Attorney’s Office completed a full review and concluded there was no violation of law, declining to file charges. Sheriff Bill Prummell announced the decision, describing it as “disheartening” but acknowledging the legal burden of proving criminal liability. Prummell also noted that internal investigations found several policy breaches, including Poole’s failure to activate his body‑worn camera and improper handling of the crime scene. Poole retired shortly after the incident.

The case highlights ongoing tensions between law‑enforcement accountability and prosecutorial standards in Florida.