Roger B. Handberg, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida
A federal jury has convicted Tyler Williams, a former deputy with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, of violating an individual's civil rights and obstructing justice. The verdict was announced by United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg in Fort Myers, Florida.
Williams, aged 30, faces up to 10 years in federal prison for employing unreasonable force. Additionally, the obstruction charge could result in a maximum penalty of 20 years behind bars. A sentencing hearing is yet to be scheduled.
The trial revealed that on July 4, 2023, Williams, while serving as a deputy under the authority of the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, unlawfully infringed on an individual's civil rights by forcibly throwing him to the ground and causing injury. Following this incident, Williams attempted to justify his actions by filing a false report, thereby obstructing justice.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Tampa Field Office. The prosecution team comprises Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick L. Darcey and Jesus M. Casas.
