A chilling attack took place within the confines of the Lake County Jail on July 30, 2023, as an inmate was brutally stabbed multiple times by another inmate. The incident, which unfolded within Housing Unit C1A2, has led to the arrest of the alleged assailant, Dustin Perdue.
On the evening of July 30, 2023, at approximately 8:30 PM, authorities responded to a report of an inmate stabbing within the Lake County Jail. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers were informed that an inmate identified as Austin Hill had suffered multiple stab wounds to his back, neck, and face. Hill had already been treated by jail medical staff for his injuries.
Detention staff detailed that the assault had occurred in the dayroom of Housing Unit C1A2, where Hill had been attacked by Dustin Perdue. Perdue allegedly used a sharp metal object to stab Hill multiple times, resulting in the victim’s injuries. Authorities indicated that the object used in the attack had not yet been located.
Captain R. Edwards, having reviewed the surveillance video footage of the incident, confirmed the veracity of the attack. The video footage revealed Perdue attacking Hill while they were in the dayroom. The assault was swift and brutal, with Perdue allegedly striking Hill repeatedly in the upper back, neck, and face area.
The detective subsequently interviewed Hill, who recounted the harrowing details of the attack. Hill described how Perdue had approached him from behind and launched a vicious assault, targeting specific areas of his upper body. Hill managed to escape Perdue’s initial attack and sought assistance from detention staff.
Authorities recovered Hill’s bloodied jail-issued clothing, including his orange jumpsuit and thermal shirt, as evidence. Hill’s injuries, which included puncture wounds to his back, neck, and face, were photographed and documented by Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) personnel.
Despite being apprehended, Perdue declined to speak with law enforcement officers without the presence of an attorney. CSI personnel collected swabs of Perdue’s hands and his clothing as evidence in connection with the case.
Further investigation led to the discovery of a small metal object, possibly the weapon used in the attack, in the vicinity of Housing Unit C1A2. This object was photographed and collected as potential evidence.
Upon review of jail call records, it was revealed that Perdue had engaged in a conversation on July 30, 2023, during which he discussed the attack and his subsequent confinement. The recorded call unveiled Perdue’s alleged intentions and sentiments.
On August 1, 2023, the Lake County Jail formally charged Dustin Perdue with attempted first-degree murder, in accordance with Florida Statutes Section 782.04(l)(a) and Section 777.04.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided in the police affidavit. Subsequent updates or developments may not be included in this report.
