Lawyer Fights Murder Charge Over Affidavit Flaws

A legal challenge is underway regarding evidence in a murder case involving Jackie Lamar Bright, who has been detained since January 11, 2023. His attorney, Fred D. Webb, submitted a motion on April 8, 2026, seeking to suppress evidence. Webb contends that the affidavit used for the search warrant, prepared by Deputy Det. Sgt. Jordan D. Simons, contained factual errors. Specifically, the outbuilding and a vehicle were cited at an incorrect address. Furthermore, the affidavit allegedly failed to name the informant or establish their reliability.

Webb also claims the information used in the affidavit was outdated, having been received on August 31, 2022, and not within the two months preceding the January 6, 2023 affidavit date. Bright is charged in connection with the death of Michael Brantley Cox. Law enforcement reportedly discovered Cox's dismembered body in a barrel on Bright's property in the Osgood area north of Sanford.

Adding to the legal proceedings, Bright sent a letter to Judge C. Winston Gilchrist on February 3, 2026, requesting new counsel. He also voiced concerns about Lee County Jail staff, stating his medical issues, including heart problems, were not being addressed. Bright alleges that jail staff were unresponsive to his health needs, leading to a family call for emergency services. He also reported being placed in segregation upon return to the jail and hearing a jail administrator tell him to 'die.' Bright also mentioned issues with receiving a CPAP machine and a lack of mental health and dental services.