"H. Fuller Cridlin has been serving as Lee County's Commonwealth's Attorney since January 1, 2016. He graduated with high honors from Furman University in 2007 and Stetson University College of Law in 2011. During the 2007-2008 school year, Cridlin worked as a Spanish teacher for the Lee County Public School System.

 

During his tenure, Cridlin has prosecuted thousands of cases, ranging from minor traffic offenses to violent felonies. Notably, he has handled multiple cases involving sexual offenses against children, resulting in life sentences. He has also successfully prosecuted various violent crimes such as murder, malicious wounding, and robbery, obtaining lengthy sentences for offenders. Additionally, he has handled public corruption cases, recovering over $40,000 in restitution for taxpayers.

 

In narcotics cases, Cridlin focuses on targeting high-volume traffickers and involving prosecutors during investigations to consider all possible sentencing enhancements before charges are filed. This approach has led to longer sentences for those convicted of large-scale distribution.

 

For defendants with small quantities of narcotics and no criminal history, Cridlin advocates for alternative sentencing programs like First Offender, Recovery Court, and the Lee Works program, providing opportunities for addiction treatment and job skills training instead of incarceration.

 

Outside of his prosecutorial duties, Cridlin is involved in supporting local community and charity events. He established a scholarship in memory of his late father, awarding over $15,000 to local students. He also volunteers his time speaking to local civic groups and mentoring programs. Additionally, he created an internship program for college students interested in legal careers.