Clay County Sheriff’s Office Arrests One of Their Own

Clay County — Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook arrested Deputy Paul S. Mauricio, a patrol deputy, on two charges of sexual battery; capital sexual battery (battery before the age of 12) and custodial sexual battery (battery after the age of 12). The victim was 12 yeas old.

Describing the announcement as disappointing news, Sheriff Cook said that deputies received a call on Tuesday evening from the victim’s mother who said that her daughter described an incident that occurred early that day involving “inappropriate sexual contact” with Mauricio. The victim said that it wasn’t the first time this behavior had taken place and that she wanted it to stop.

According to Sheriff Cook, the victim’s mother immediately notified the deputies and Mauricio was placed on an emergency suspension until the allegations could be thoroughly investigated. An Integrity Inspector and Special Victims immediately met with a Department of Children and Families investigator. A safety plan was initiated that prohibited Mauricio to have any contact with the victim and he was placed on an emergency suspension.

Detailed interviews and medical exams took place the next day. Mauricio confirmed the allegations and was immediately terminated and taken into custody.

Although the victim knew Mauricio, who had been on the force for 8 years, Sheriff Cook refused to share any details that might lead to the identification of the suspect.

Describing the victim as brave, Sheriff Cook commended the victim for “coming forward and having such a difficult conversation with her mom.”

“These cases can be difficult to investigate, but there is no higher calling then ensuring the safety of the children of this community,” she said. “It is always disappointing when a deputy tarnishes the badge, but we have so many more that are committed to honoring their oath to protect and serve our community by holding criminals accountable, even if that criminal holds a badge.”