Sarasota Man Charged with Murder

NEWS RELEASE #: 16-110

The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office arrested a Sarasota man after detectives connected him with the stabbing death of his ex-girlfriend's mother.

Deputies responded to 2355 20th Street, at 1:33 p.m., Friday, for reports of a stabbing. When they arrived, they made contact with Bernis Boykins, DOB 01/14/74. Boykins admitted to stabbing two women inside the home. When deputies entered the residence, they located Boykin's ex-girlfriend Teyanna Leverette, DOB 07/28/95, and her mother Tonya Simpson, DOB 01/17/62. Leverette was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital where she remains in critical condition. Simpson was deceased on scene.

Detectives arrested Boykins Friday night. He is charged with a single count each of Murder and Attempted Murder. Boykins is being held at the Sarasota County Jail without bond. The investigation continues.
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