Battery on Hillsborough Deputy: Video Released

TAMPA, FL — As the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office continues to search for a man wanted in connection with an alleged battery on one of its deputies, the agency has released footage of the incident. The video pulled from a surveillance camera, shows the incident as it unfolded at the Stop and Shop, 1201 142nd St., around 11:22 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21.

According to the agency, Deputy Steve Gutierrez stopped a vehicle at 142nd Avenue East and 12th Street North for a seatbelt violation. The vehicle’s female driver pulled into the Stop and Shop.

“Prior to Deputy Gutierrez being able to voice the vehicle tag information, the black male passenger began to open the passenger door,” the email said. “Deputy Gutierrez approached the passenger and explained to both the purpose of the stop and then asked them for their driver’s licenses.”

The passenger, later identified as Rodshee Jermaine Rayford, got out of the vehicle, shoved Gutierrez and a struggle began, the email said. Gutierrez deployed his taser, the sheriff’s office said, but it had no effect.

Rayford took off after the scuffle and remains at large. He is now wanted on a violation of parole charge and for battery on a law enforcement officer.

“He is considered dangerous and is a habitual offender,” the email said. Past charges include robbery with a firearm, carjacking with a firearm and kidnapping, assault or terrorize. Florida Department of Corrections records indicate he was released from state custody on Feb. 16, 2016 following a 2005 conviction.

Anyone who knows of Rayford’s whereabouts is asked to call the sheriff’s office at 813-247-8200. Tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-873-TIPS.

Photo and video courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office