On 09-25-19 just after 10 a.m., during a training exercise, a deputy was injured.
During the training exercise, a law enforcement deputy accidentally discharged his weapon during the “un-holstering” process. The deputy sustained a gunshot wound to the leg as a result of the accidental discharge. No other persons were injured.
Fire Rescue was requested, and other deputies on the scene immediately began administering first aid to the injured deputy. It should be noted the injured deputy was alert and talking immediately following the injury.
The deputy was transported from the scene to a local trauma center for treatment. He has since been released and is recovering at home.
As with all investigations of this nature, Forensics Specialists and Major Case Detectives responded to the scene. Additionally, a representative from Internal Affairs responded to the scene and will be conducting an independent investigation to ensure all policies and procedures were followed and to determine if any changes are needed.
The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office conducts training exercises and/or mandatory qualification and requalification at the firing range approximately 48 weeks per the calendar year. During this time, 361 sworn law enforcement deputies fire weapons there. During a calendar year, there are over 259,000 rounds fired at the range by Hernando County Sheriff’s deputies.
The deputy, whose identity will not be released, has been employed by the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office for nearly 15 years. Prior to becoming a deputy sheriff, he served in the U.S. Marines.
