Tampa Republic

The Tampa Police Department has terminated Officer Michael Scaglione following an internal investigation that found violations of department policies related to the use of force. The Professional Standards Bureau determined that Scaglione, who had been with the department since August 2016, applied unauthorized deadly force during an arrest attempt.

On April 12, 2024, Scaglione and another officer responded to a domestic battery report at a residence on North 10th Street. During the arrest attempt, the defendant resisted by refusing to comply with orders and pulling away from officers. As they struggled on the ground, body camera footage showed Scaglione placing the defendant in a chokehold, leading to a brief loss of consciousness for the suspect.

Tampa Police Standard Operating Procedure prohibits chokeholds unless deadly force is justified, which was not deemed necessary in this situation. Additionally, it was found that Scaglione failed to document several strikes to the head during his response.

Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized the challenges faced by officers during domestic violence calls but highlighted the importance of adhering to established procedures. "Domestic violence investigations are one of the most dangerous and volatile situations an officer can respond to," said Bercaw. "It is imperative that...officers must be able to respond according to established policies and training procedures."

Scaglione's actions were found in violation of multiple departmental standards including conduct and attentiveness to duty.