Search for Man Accused of Attacking Deputy Under Way

TAMPA, FL — The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help locating a 37-year-old man accused of attacking a deputy after a Wednesday traffic stop.

According to the agency, Deputy Steve Gutierrez stopped a vehicle at 142nd Avenue East and 12th Street North around 11:22 a.m. Sept. 21. The female driver of the black Toyota pulled into the 1201 142nd St. Stop and Shop, an email from the agency said.

“Prior to Deuty 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 courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office