Marion County deputy sheriff’s deputies found a substance that tested positive for cocaine during an inspection at the Paradise Bar & Lounge.
According to a sheriff’s office report, deputies found a plastic bag containing other plastic bags inside a trash can near the door of the Citra bar, located at 13007 North U.S. Highway 441. The bags contained a white crystal-like substance that field tested positive for cocaine, the report says.
The substance was booked into evidence and the Department of Business Professional Regulation/Division of Alcoholics Beverage and Tobacco was being notified.
The Paradise Bar & Lounge was in the news this past Sunday after a gunman or gunmen opened fire on a Marion County deputy and the crowd he was trying to disperse in the early morning hours. Dep. Joseph Spratlin quickly took cover to avoid being hit by the gunfire, with his patrol vehicle taking at least one round. He was unable to return fire because he was focused on protecting the frantic bystanders.
Detectives are still working to identify eye witnesses and obtain statements that could help with the investigation. They also are asking the public for help in finding those involved in the crime.
Anyone with information about the shooting is being asked to call Sgt. Donald Buie at (352) 368-3538 or Marion County Crime Stoppers at (352) 368-STOP (7867). Tips also can be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com. For Crime Stoppers, reference 18-29 in your tip. If you use Crime Stoppers and your tip leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward.