Sheriff’s Deputy Facing Manslaughter Charge After Death of Girlfriend

A Florida sheriff’s deputy faces manslaughter charges after allegedly shooting his girlfriend by accident.

At a Glance

Leslie Dale Boileau, a Marion County Sheriff’s deputy, is charged with manslaughter for fatally shooting his girlfriend, Polina Wright.
The incident occurred while Boileau was allegedly cleaning a rifle at home after consuming alcohol.
Boileau called 911 and admitted to accidentally shooting Wright, who was found dead with a gunshot wound to the forehead.
The Ocala Police Department and the state attorney’s office are investigating the incident.
Boileau was fired from his position at the sheriff’s office, where he had served for 8 years and received awards.

Tragic Incident Unfolds in Ocala, Florida

Late last week, a shocking incident unfolded in the Highlands area of Ocala, Florida. Leslie Dale Boileau, an eight-year veteran of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, was allegedly involved in a fatal shooting that claimed the life of his girlfriend, Polina Wright. The tragedy reportedly occurred around 11 p.m. when Boileau was cleaning a rifle at home after consuming alcohol. According to Boileau, he and Wright were both cleaning and “dry-firing” guns, and he accidentally shot her while demonstrating use of one of the weapons.

According to reports, Boileau called 911 and admitted to accidentally shooting Wright. When police arrived at the scene, they found Wright dead with a gunshot wound to the forehead. Both a handgun and a rifle were discovered at the location. The physical evidence at the scene reportedly supported Boileau’s account of the events.

Florida sheriff deputy arrested, fired after apparent accidental shooting of girlfriend https://t.co/Xjkxv8WWSq

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Investigation and Charges

The Ocala Police Department and the state attorney’s office swiftly launched an investigation into the incident. As a result of their findings, Boileau was arrested on Friday and charged with manslaughter, and promptly fired from the police department. He faced a judge who set his bail at $30,000 with specific conditions, including no possession of weapons and no contact with Wright’s family.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victim’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said Police Chief Mike Balken. “The Ocala Police Department is working with the state attorney’s office to ensure justice is served.”

Boileau was released on bond on Saturday and is expected to appear in court for arraignment in late October. The case has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and the public, raising questions about firearm safety and the responsibilities of those entrusted to uphold the law.

Details of the Incident

According to the arrest report, Boileau stated that he and Wright had been out for dinner and drinks before returning home to clean guns. In a tragic turn of events, they allegedly began pointing the weapons at each other. Boileau admitted to pointing a rifle at Wright, pulling the trigger, and a bullet striking her in the head.

“I know this looks really bad,” Boileau reportedly told responding officers. “I told her I did not want this to happen. I did not want to train her in the … house like this.”

Boileau’s background in criminal justice and his tenure with the sheriff’s office, during which he earned multiple awards and commendations, make the tragedy all the more shocking.

Community Response and Implications

The local community has been left reeling from this tragic event. Neighbors reportedly described Boileau and Wright’s relationship as non-confrontational, adding another layer of complexity to the case. Some Marion County residents have expressed the opinion that the case requires further investigation.

“We are heartbroken for the family and friends of the victim. Tens of thousands of law enforcement officers do their job commendably every day. But unfortunately, the tragic actions of just one are felt through the entire law enforcement community,” Sheriff Billy Woods said.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible gun handling and the potential consequences of mixing alcohol with firearms. It also highlights the need for ongoing training and awareness programs for law enforcement officers regarding off-duty firearm safety.

As the legal process unfolds, the community awaits further details and hopes for justice to be served in this heartbreaking case that has forever changed the lives of those involved.