Tragic Loss: Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Mourns Corrections Lieutenant William Garlick
Punta Gorda, FL – Community Mourns the Loss of Corrections Lieutenant William Garlick
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is in mourning following the tragic death of Corrections Lieutenant William Garlick, who lost his life in a motorcycle accident on Saturday evening. The incident occurred when another vehicle attempted to make a left turn in front of him, leading to a collision that claimed his life.
Lt. Garlick, who joined the CCSO in February 2018, quickly made a name for himself within the department. He began his career as a deputy at the Charlotte County Jail and steadily climbed the ranks, becoming a Corrections Deputy First Class in 2013 and a corporal in 2015. His dedication to service saw him return to the jail in 2021, where he was promoted to lieutenant earlier this year.
In a heartfelt tribute, the CCSO stated, “Over the 14+ years of his career with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, Lieutenant William Garlick left a legacy of dedication, mentorship, and integrity for the people he encountered. His steady hand and calming presence will be missed by not just his squad, but by the agency as a whole.”
Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell expressed his sorrow, saying, “It is never easy to lose anyone, but losing someone of this caliber, who has devoted himself to the service of others, is especially hard. William Garlick was more than a Corrections Lieutenant for CCSO; he was a father, husband, friend, and brother. My heart hurts for his family and loved ones, as well as for our members who will miss his quiet leadership on shift. May he rest in God’s eternal glory and never be forgotten.”
A celebration of life for Lt. Garlick is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, at 2 p.m. at the Babcock Field House, located at 43281 Cypress Parkway, Punta Gorda, FL 33982. The community is invited to attend and pay their respects.
In lieu of flowers, Garlick’s family has requested donations to support the ‘Shop With A Cop’ program, a cause he cherished. Contributions can be made by sending checks payable to CCSO with ‘Shop With A Cop’ noted in the memo line, to CCSO Community Affairs, 7474 Utilities Rd., Punta Gorda, FL 33982.
As the community comes together to honor Lt. Garlick’s memory, his legacy of service and dedication will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those he touched.