The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a detention deputy, Robert Creel, Jr., 50, for unlawfully accessing video footage of inmates outside his scope of authority.
Between May 15 and June 9, 2024, detectives determined that Creel, Jr. viewed video footage of nude female inmates outside his assigned responsibilities. Creel, Jr. accessed these videos without a valid law enforcement purpose, repeatedly rewinding and reviewing the footage.
"This behavior is a gross violation of trust and an overstep of access that will not be tolerated," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This man's actions are a disgrace to the badge, exploiting his position to prey on individuals in vulnerable situations."
The unauthorized access was discovered on June 11, 2024. Creel, Jr. was placed on administrative leave without pay on June 12, 2024, while detectives conducted a thorough investigation. The investigation led to Creel, Jr.'s arrest on August 2, 2024. He was taken into custody without incident. Creel, Jr. will be terminated from his position at HCSO.
Robert Creel, Jr. is now charged with:
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Engage Audio/Video Surveillance By Accessing Computer/Electronic Device Without Authority (x11)
Creel, Jr. was hired in December 2002 and had no prior disciplinary history.
This is an active and ongoing investigation; for further information, please contact the Public Affairs Office.
According to Florida State Statute 119, Creel, Jr.’s photo is exempt from public dissemination.