Polk City, FL – A Florida woman has been found guilty on multiple charges in connection with the death of a Polk County deputy, who was killed by friendly fire during an October 2022 felony arrest operation.
Cheryl Lynn Williams, 49, faces decades behind bars after a Polk County jury found her guilty of second-degree murder, resisting an officer without violence, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of methamphetamine.
Incident Overvie
The fatal incident occurred on Oct. 4, 2022, at approximately 3 a.m., when Deputy Blane Lane, 21, and three fellow officers arrived at Williams’ residence in Polk City, about 40 miles southwest of Orlando. The deputies were serving a felony arrest warrant after Williams failed to appear in court on a drug possession charge.
Lane, newly sworn in, assumed a tactical position near the rear of the home after receiving guidance from witnesses regarding Williams’ location. Williams then appeared near a gaming room holding a silver handgun, later identified as a realistic BB gun.
Friendly-Fire Tragedy
A volley of gunfire erupted. Williams was struck at least twice, but Lane was also hit, the bullet entering his arm and traveling into his chest. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, the deputy died at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd described Williams’ actions as the direct cause of Lane’s death.
“This suspect’s outrageous criminal actions were the cause of my deputy being killed in the line of duty, and the jury appropriately found her guilty as charged,” Judd said.
“Her family can visit her in prison, but Blane’s family has to visit his grave in a cemetery and can only have a one-sided conversation with him. We will never forget Deputy Blane Lane, and his family remains in our prayers.”
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Williams reportedly remained stoic in court as each conviction was read. The jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled, but Williams could face life in prison for the second-degree murder conviction.
Lane’s mother reacted emotionally to the verdict:
“I would love to say there is a sign of relief — it doesn’t bring him back,” she said through tears.
“So I’m glad she’s done. She is done.”
Context and Impact
The case highlights the risks law enforcement officers face during high-stakes arrests, particularly when suspects are armed—even with non-lethal firearms. Friendly-fire incidents, while rare, underline the importance of tactical coordination and the split-second decisions officers must make under pressure.
Next Steps
Authorities continue to review procedures surrounding the case and are expected to provide updates on Williams’ sentencing once scheduled. The community remains focused on honoring Deputy Blane Lane’s service and supporting his family through the grieving process.
What do you think about this case? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know your perspective on law enforcement safety in high-risk situations.
