Pasco County sheriff calls arrested deputy a "monster" after child abuse charges

Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco announced that former deputy Donald Valverde, 37, has been arrested and terminated following allegations of sustained sexual abuse of a child known to him through a custodial relationship. The victim, described as extremely brave, provided details that the sheriff said were "absolutely horrendous" and prompted charges of two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation—one a life felony—and one count of unlawful sexual activity involving a minor, which also carries a potential life sentence.

Nocco publicly condemned Valverde, calling him a "monster" and a "POS," and expressed that the deputy's actions have damaged the reputation of law enforcement. Valverde had been with the Pasco County Sheriff's Office since 2015 and was recently promoted to corporal. The sheriff's office confirmed the victim is receiving support and stated no other victims have been reported, while the investigation remains ongoing.