Deputy Charged With Domestic Violence: Hillsborough County Sheriff

MULBERRY, FL — A Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested Saturday and charged with domestic violence battery in Polk County, the agency said.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to the home of Mark Verkest, 38, in Mulberry for reports of an altercation with a woman who also lives there.

Polk County deputies determined that Verkest battered the woman, and took him into custody without incident, HCSO said.

He was then placed under a Baker Act based on statements he made.

“Deputies are entrusted with the responsibility to serve as role models in our community, and this behavior is completely unacceptable and disappointing,” Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “I expect every HCSO deputy to hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct and integrity, both in their professional and personal lives.”

Verkest was hired by HCSO in September of 2017. He is currently on unpaid administrative leave pending the results of the investigation.