Florida Man Confesses to Strangling Boss Outside Workplace

Richard Dustin Barker faces charges of second-degree murder and evidence tampering following the early morning slaying of his employer, Jeffrey Hubbard.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:50pm

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An extreme close-up of a bloodied white tank top, the harsh flash lighting creating a stark, gritty aesthetic that conceptually represents the violent nature of the crime.A brutal act of workplace violence exposes the need for improved safety measures and mental health support for small businesses.Venice Today

A 42-year-old Venice, Florida man named Richard Dustin Barker has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder and evidence tampering after allegedly ambushing and strangling his 56-year-old boss, Jeffrey Hubbard, outside their workplace. Barker reportedly confessed to the killing, detailing a calculated plan to end Hubbard's life and admitting to attempting to cover up the crime scene.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of workplace violence and the need for employers to prioritize employee mental health and safety. It also raises concerns about the criminal justice system's ability to prevent and respond to such premeditated acts of violence.

The details

According to the police affidavit, Barker waited for Hubbard to exit their workplace, RPM Mower Repair, where Barker worked for Hubbard. Prepared for a fight, Barker allegedly wore a motorcycle helmet and had a tank top tied around his wrist to use as a ligature. When Hubbard emerged, Barker reportedly ambushed and strangled him, even re-wrapping the shirt around Hubbard's neck after the initial struggle to ensure he could not be revived. After the killing, Barker allegedly attempted to clean up the crime scene and transport the body before being apprehended by police.

  • The incident unfolded around 6 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9, 2026.
  • Barker is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Friday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Richard Dustin Barker

A 42-year-old Venice, Florida resident who worked for the victim, Jeffrey Hubbard, at RPM Mower Repair and is accused of strangling Hubbard to death.

Jeffrey Hubbard

A 56-year-old man who was Barker's boss at RPM Mower Repair and was allegedly strangled by Barker outside their workplace.

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What they’re saying

“I killed the motherf***er.”

— Richard Dustin Barker

What’s next

Barker is currently being held without bond at the Sarasota County Jail and is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Friday, April 12, 2026.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for employers to prioritize workplace safety and mental health support for their staff, as well as the ongoing challenges the criminal justice system faces in preventing and responding to premeditated acts of violence.