A deputy with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has been arrested for battery in Polk County.
On Saturday, December 28, 2024, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to the home of Mark Verkest, 38, in Mulberry, Florida, for reports of an altercation with an adult female who lives at the residence.
Polk County deputies determined that Verkest battered the woman, and took him into custody without incident. Verkest was subsequently placed under a Baker Act based on statements he made.
Verkest is now facing one charge of Domestic Violence Battery.
“Deputies are entrusted with the responsibility to serve as role models in our community, and this behavior is completely unacceptable and disappointing,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “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 the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in September of 2017. Verkest is currently on unpaid administrative leave pending the results of the investigation.
For further details about this investigation, please reach out to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.