FL Police Officer Accused Of Domestic Violence Attack

BRANDON, FL — A Tampa police officer was arrested Friday after a domestic violence investigation, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Deputies responded to Brandon Regional Hospital on Friday when a woman came in and was treated for injuries consistent with physical battery.

The injuries came from an altercation between the victim and 47-year-old Steven Barber, the sheriff’s office said.

Barber repeatedly hit the victim — slapping, punching and kicking her — and put her in a headlock.

He was arrested Saturday in Pinellas County and charged with domestic violence battery by strangulation, false imprisonment and domestic violence battery.

He is employed by the Tampa Police Department and serves as a U.S. Army Reserve Criminal Investigations Division Special Agent.

“The actions described in this case are disturbing and completely unacceptable," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “No badge, no title, and no rank will ever excuse violence inside the home. Our detectives worked quickly to make this arrest, and we will always stand with survivors and hold abusers accountable."