Woods said deputies used the agency's license plate reader camera system to help identify and track Castillo. But he credits a 911 caller for finally helping deputies find Castillo and the girl.
"You paid attention. You trusted your instincts. Most importantly, you took action. You didn't assume someone else would do it," Woods stated. "Because of you, our deputies were able to locate that vehicle and rescue a child."
Deputies finally reached Castillo, who tried to flee. A PIT maneuver was used to stop his vehicle, and he appeared to pull out a gun in dashcam footage.
“Now, Jason presented himself in a threatening manner. And when he did, eight of my deputies, along with one Belleview police officer, shot Jason. And he died,” Woods said. “Make no apologies of it. He presented himself in a dangerous manner, and they took the appropriate action.”
The girl was returned home following the incident, and Woods praised the work of his deputies in rescuing the teen.
"I couldn't be more proud of my deputies," Woods wrote. "When that little girl needed them, they answered the call. They worked every lead, used every tool available, and they didn't quit until she was safe. That's what they do every single day."
