The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army on charges of Lewd or Lascivious Battery and Molestation involving a juvenile victim.
The investigation was launched after a victim came forward earlier this month. During the investigation, detectives learned the incidents occurred in 2013, after Zitko befriended the victim's family. Zitko was 40-41 years old, and the victim was 13-14 years old at the time.
On August 20, 2024, Derek Zitko, 52, turned himself in after an arrest warrant was issued earlier that day.
"Our determination to seek justice does not diminish over time, and no one is above the law, regardless of their position or past," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "I commend the bravery of this survivor for coming forward and sharing their story, which has been instrumental in holding this vile offender accountable. We will always stand with victims and work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible face consequences."
Zitko served in the U.S. Army from June 1994, until his retirement in May 2015, and retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He has also been an active member of the Chapel at Fishhawk for approximately seven years, where he was as a small group leader and youth volunteer from 2018 to 2022.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office believes there may be additional victims and urges anyone with information to please come forward by calling (813) 247-8200.