A Port St. Lucie police officer was suspended after an internal investigation revealed he engaged in gambling activities using department-issued devices while on duty. Officer Thomas Risco, who joined the Port St. Lucie Police Department in November 2022, was disciplined following a detailed audit of his official communications and devices.
Officer Thomas Risco’s Gambling Investigation in Port St. Lucie
The investigation into Officer Risco began after a routine fourth-quarter 2023 text message audit of department-issued cell phones uncovered suspicious communications. According to internal affairs records, Risco exchanged several non-official police business text messages discussing an increase in his NFL sports betting credit limit.
Following this discovery, authorities conducted a forensic examination of Risco’s department-issued laptop and cell phone in March 2024. The examination confirmed his involvement in gambling activities from February 2023 through March 2024.
Misuse of Department-Issued Devices
Investigators found multiple gambling-related logins, queries, and stored accounts on Officer Risco’s department-issued laptop and cell phone. Websites frequently accessed included anybet365.com, wagertheboard.com, prizepicks.com, action88.com, and smartmoneysports.net.
During an official interview, Risco admitted to placing wagers and gambling on both department-issued and personal devices, both on and off duty. He stated his weekly wagers typically ranged between $200 and $400, depending on his available betting credit, and he limited his bets exclusively to football games.
Consequences and Disciplinary Action for Gambling Misconduct
Port St. Lucie Police Department officials concluded that Officer Risco misused city-issued equipment and engaged in gambling activities at a city workstation. Initially, Risco received an 80-hour suspension, equivalent to two weeks.
However, the suspension was later reduced to 40 hours, or one week, after Risco successfully completed a corrective diversion process. This alternative disciplinary procedure is offered to employees who meet specific criteria, including accepting responsibility, agreeing with the imposed discipline, and waiving their right to appeal.
Department’s Stance on Device Misuse and Gambling
The Port St. Lucie Police Department maintains strict policies regarding the use of department-issued devices and prohibits gambling activities during working hours. Officials emphasize accountability and adherence to professional standards to maintain public trust and integrity within the department. Recently, the department faced scrutiny when charges were dropped for a veteran Port St. Lucie police sergeant, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining accountability.
Community Reaction and Next Steps in Port St. Lucie
The incident involving Officer Risco has raised concerns about oversight and accountability within the Port St. Lucie Police Department. Residents and local officials alike are closely monitoring the department’s response and the effectiveness of corrective actions implemented to prevent similar occurrences. This comes amid other recent incidents, such as the arrest of a St. Lucie County deputy in Port St. Lucie for a road rage burglary incident, further emphasizing the need for vigilant oversight.
Port St. Lucie continues to prioritize transparency and integrity, reinforcing the importance of responsible use of city resources among all public employees. The police department also remains vigilant against external threats, recently investigating traveling criminal activity impacting the community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Police Officer Gambling Suspension
What is the reason for the Port St. Lucie officer’s suspension?
The officer was suspended for gambling on football games using department-issued devices while on duty. Investigators discovered his activities through a routine audit.
How much did Officer Risco typically wager?
Officer Risco typically wagered between $200 and $400 weekly. The exact amount varied depending on his available betting credit.
Are Port St. Lucie police officers allowed to gamble on duty?
No, Port St. Lucie Police Department strictly prohibits officers from gambling while on duty or using department-issued devices for gambling purposes.
Can officers appeal disciplinary actions in Port St. Lucie?
Yes, officers typically have the right to appeal disciplinary actions. However, Officer Risco waived this right as part of the corrective diversion process.
Where are Port St. Lucie Police Department policies available?
Policies regarding officer conduct and device usage are publicly accessible through the Port St. Lucie Police Department’s official website or by contacting their public information office.
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