FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]
TAMPA, FL (March 18, 2024) — The defendant charged with murdering a 52-year-old gay man at West Dog Park in February will remain behind bars until trial. A judge ruled that Gerald Declan Radford is a danger to the community and denied him bond in a Hillsborough County courtroom today. Radford faces second-degree murder charges. In addition, the state is seeking an enhancement as a hate crime under Florida Statute 775.085.
The lead detective testified in court about Radford’s statements to deputies after the shooting. Radford told investigators he was in a “scuffle” with the victim when he pulled his gun and fired. Following a thorough investigation, deputies learned that Radford routinely used bigoted slurs toward the victim and even talked about wanting to harm him at the dog park prior to the shooting. The detective also testified about a video found on the victim’s cell phone that details how Radford told the victim, “You’re gonna die,” just 24 hours before the shooting.
Prosecutors told the judge that Radford also remains a flight risk. Although he is a legal resident, he is not a U.S. citizen and could potentially flee the country if granted bond. The defense attorney asked for a $50,000 bond, but a judge denied the request.
“Crimes of hate are some of the clearest dangers to our community and are a threat to every citizen of Hillsborough County. This defendant’s actions led to the senseless death of a man who was simply trying to enjoy a morning with his dog at a local park. We will work tirelessly to ensure he is held accountable for his actions,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.