A Broward sheriff deputy died on Wednesday night after his arrest on child porn charges, according to the sheriff’s office. The sheriff deputy suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was rushed to Broward County Medical Center before he was pronounced dead at 11:27 p.m. He had spent almost a week in jail on 29 different charges and was bonded out on Wednesday. The deputy had called 911 before attempting suicide and told the dispatcher to come to the side of the house before hanging up at around 5 p.m. His wife had left their home in Sunrise to get food and check on their five children, who were staying at another location. There were no other individuals inside of the home or on the property at the time.
The 17-year veteran was arrested after a two-month investigation was conducted after the officer spent several late nights in a dark office with his uniform belt and gun belt removed. The investigation led to the discovery that the 42-year old officer was using his work-issued laptop to watch child pornography and also exchange sexually explicit messages with an underage teenager in California. He also accessed multiple social media websites in an attempt to target other teenagers.
After his arrest, the sheriff deputy was ordered to stay away from minors, including his own children, unless supervised. He was also told he would not have access to any weapons or Internet devices.
Neighbors recall seeing paramedics drag his body off of the scene after the sheriff attempted to commit suicide.
“I used to see him when I leave. He’s out with his children. He was a family man, not knowing those allegations were against him,” said one of his neighbors.
If you or someone you know has been in a similar situation, contact a Broward County Criminal Attorney Kenneth Hassett. A criminal defense attorney will offer their representation in criminal court and can assist clients who are charged with serious criminal offenses. Hassett and Associates, P.A. can provide an immediate consultation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
