The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man on murder charges following a death investigation.
On December 29, 2023, Shawn Wallace, 36, was located deceased from a suspected overdose at a residence in Valrico. Through investigative means, detectives determined that Joseph Bellamy, 48, supplied Wallace with narcotics that led to his overdose.
On February 25, 2025, an arrest warrant was obtained, and Bellamy was taken into custody without incident. He is currently facing one count of Murder in the First Degree, which resulted from the Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
"Selling dangerous narcotics isn’t just a crime; it’s a direct threat to lives in our community," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We will not stand by while drug dealers poison our streets. If you choose to sell these deadly substances, we will find you, and we will hold you accountable."
This is an active investigation and any further information will come from the Public Affairs Office.