Crime & Safety

Sheriff Thanks New Port Richey Man for Helping Deputy

Anthony Stinnett was recognized for helping a deputy in need.

A New Port Richey man who helped out a Pasco County Sheriff’s deputy in need got recognition from the county's top cop Thursday.

Anthony “Billy” Stinnett was the man who came to the aid of a deputy who was attacked by a suspect he had arrested. The attack happened on the way to the Land O’ Lakes jail. The suspect had climbed out of the deputy’s cruiser and strung his handcuffs around the deputy’s neck.

Stinnett helped the deputy. The Tampa Bay Times reports he pried the cuffs from the deputy’s throat.

Find out what's happening in New Port Richeyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

On Thursday, Sheriff Chris Nocco thanked Stinnett and gave him a plaque.

“I never thought I’d be standing here,” said Stinnett, who has an arrest record.

Find out what's happening in New Port Richeyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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