For Immediate Release

December 20, 2017

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, Fla— Tuesday morning December 19^th, Walton County Sheriff’s Office was made aware of an incident involving the professional misconduct of a deputy.

The incident was immediately investigated by the agency. It was confirmed the deputy improperly used his position to contact a woman who he had previously assisted while on duty on December 17^th. The contact was made from his personal phone while off duty December 18^th. However, this conduct is beyond the realm of professionalism we demand of our employees and is not to be tolerated.

The deputy, who has worked for the organization less than a year, was called in this morning, relieved of his duties, badge, and weapon and escorted out of the Administrative Offices.

“The position of a Sheriff Deputy is held to a higher standard and is one that requires trust,” said Sheriff Michael Adkinson. “This individual’s blatant disregard of his oath will not be ignored and that is why swift action was taken.”