Murder Charge Filed In Overdose Death: Manatee County Sheriff

ELLENTON, FL — A local drug dealer was recently charged with murder in connection with a fatal overdose in October, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Toby Davis, 44, was initially charged with possession with intent to sell, tampering with evidence and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Deputies found 41-year-old Jonathan Watson dead from a suspected overdose in the 400 block of Sunset Circle North on Oct. 28.

Detectives found evidence of cocaine use and text messages showing Watson had arranged to purchase drugs from Davis, the sheriff’s office said.

Using Watson’s phone, detectives set up a time to meet with the suspect the next day.

When Davis arrived at the home for their meetup, the suspect discarded a bag of about 4.1 grams of cocaine after spotting detectives, MCSO said.

He was taken into custody and found with an additional bag of cocaine.

Davis admitted to selling Watson cocaine the day prior and provided access to his cell phone.

After his initial charges, further investigation, including medical examiner and toxicology findings, detectives established probable cause linking Davis to Watson’s death, the sheriff’s office said.

Davis was arrested on Longboat Key on March 20 and charged with murder by distribution of a controlled substance.

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