OCALA, Fla. – The Ocala Police Department says it’s making headway in two critical 2024 homicide investigations, announcing charges Wednesday for two men accused in separate killings.
Zavondre Newmones, 25, faces a charge of first-degree murder in the February 2024 death of Troyelle Bell along NMW 1st Street, the police department said in a news release.
Stephon Bagley, 27, faces a charge of first-degree murder in the June 2024 death of Faye Porter on NW 20th Avenue, the release states. Bagley faces additional charges of attempted second-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, fleeing and eluding, possession of a machine gun, possession of methamphetamine, possession of cannabis less than 20g, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving while license revoked as a habitual offender, police said.
Both men were indicted Aug. 7 and are in custody at the time of this report, the statement reads.
“With these indictments, we are proud to confirm that all homicide cases from 2024 have been officially cleared by arrest,” the release states, commending detectives Grosso and Ridge especially for extensive investigative work within the department’s Major Crimes Unit. “We are committed to keeping Ocala safe and will continue working tirelessly to protect our community. Thank you for your trust and support as we strive to make our city safer for everyone.”