On Valentine's Day, a tragic incident occurred on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk when 13-year-old Sullivan Clarke was slashed in the neck by Jermaine Lynn Long, a registered sex offender with a history of violence. This shocking act has led Sullivan's family to voice their outrage, primarily aimed at the law enforcement and judicial system for allowing Long to roam free. Just four days prior to the attack, Long had been released from jail despite a lengthy criminal record that included pending charges for violent assaults. The family's anger was further fueled knowing that prosecutors had previously declined to pursue allegations against Long, which could have potentially prevented this incident.

The circumstances surrounding Sullivan’s attack raise significant questions about public safety and the decisions made by authorities regarding repeat offenders. It has been reported that Long not only attacked Sullivan but was also suspected of another violent incident shortly before the stabbing, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior that went unaddressed by law enforcement. Sullivan's father, Jared Clarke, emphasized the devastating impact of this incident, stating that had the judicial system taken the necessary actions, his son might not have faced such a life-threatening attack.

This event underscores the urgent need for law enforcement and judicial systems to reassess their policies concerning the release of repeat offenders into communities. Amidst the family's grief and anger, they are advocating for changes to ensure that others do not have to endure similar experiences. As the community grapples with this traumatic event, it raises awareness about the potentially lethal consequences of failing to adequately supervise individuals with violent criminal histories.