An alleged drug dealer in Hernando County is now charged with murder. He's accused of supplying a lethal dose of the synthetic drug flakka to an 18-year-old.
It's been almost two years since 18-year-old Dylan Thornton died from an apparent drug overdose. His family now hopes they're a step closer to getting justice.
Thornton disappeared after celebrating his 18th birthday at a party in a Brooksville neighborhood. Witnesses told deputies Thornton had taken his clothes off and went running into a wooded area. When he didn't come back, a friend called 911.
Deputies and volunteers scoured the area, and several hours later, Dylan's body was found behind a home off Crowell Road. During their investigation, deputies learned Isaac Lemons gave Thornton the drug flakka. UItimately, authorities concluded that meant Lemons caused Thornton's death. He's now in jail, charged with third degree murder and drug possession.
"If somebody dies of a drug overdose, we're going to do everything we can to find out who supplied those drugs because they knew or should've known there's a good chance of a person dying from those drugs. It's scary, scary stuff. So if our enforcement efforts save even one life, it's worth it," said Hernando Co. Sheriff Al Nienhuis.
Dylan's family didn't want to go on camera, but his mom told ABC Action News that while she's frustrated it took over 18 months for Lemons to be arrested, she's glad someone is being held accountable for her son's death.
Isaac Lemons is the son of a the publisher of Real News Real Fast – a news website that covers Hernando, Citrus and Pasco Counties. Tom Lemons wrote the following on Facebook after the arrest:
"My heart goes out to family and friends of Dylan J. Thornton. As the father of two young daughters and the defendant in this case, I cannot imagine the grief of losing a child, regardless of the means. The drug epidemic in our community and most other communities is out of control and our children are the most vulnerable victims to this plague. I cannot comment on the specific details of this case because the investigation is still ongoing. I will say that I have absolute faith our judicial system and believe that justice will be served regardless of the outcome. Since the announcement of Isaac’s arrest, I have received death threats and personal attacks on my family. We do not take these threats lightly and will report all incidents that may violate the law. Again, our most sincere condolences to family and friends of Dylan J. Thornton. " --Tom Lemons
