COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — Earlier today the Collier County Sheriff’s Office put out a statement on their Facebook page informing the public they arrested one of their own, Saturday night. Former deputy 41-year-old Rashad Smith was arrested and is charged with 100 counts of child pornography.
The arrest comes after 3 cyber tips to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, stating that a laptop belonging to Smith contained pornographic images of children aged from 3 to 10 years of age.
In a statement on their Facebook page, Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said,
“The justice system will determine the outcome of this case but due to the heinous nature of these allegations, I ordered the immediate withdrawal of this person’s appointment as a member of the Collier County Sheriff’s Office.”
One person who only wanted to be identified by his first name knew Smith personally telling Fox 4 in a statement,
“I’m shocked this happened. I never knew he was like this and didn’t see him as this type of person,” said Chris.
Morgan McWilliams says these charges are sickening.
“The charges are very disgusting and pretty serious charges. However I believe it’s our right in America, and it’s important for the police department and law enforcement to gather all the evidence to be sure that he is prosecuted in the court of law,” said Morgan McWilliams.
He finds comfort knowing Collier County Sheriff’s office did their job, and believes we should support our men and women in uniform.
“With the animosity and everything going on right now with law enforcement, I think it’s important for us as a community to step together and support Collier County Sheriff’s Office and let them know how much we appreciate their protection,” said McWilliams.
Smith is being charged with a felony on 100 counts of child pornography but a bond has yet to be set by a judge.
