HILLSBOROUGH CO., Fla. — The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) said a major was fired for being under the influence of alcohol while on duty.
HCSO said via a statement Maj. Troy Morgan was "found to be in violation of HCSO policy after being under the influence of alcohol while on duty, and was immediately terminated."
According to a previously removed page on HCSO's website, Morgan is a recipient of the State of Florida Mothers Against Drunk Driving Deputy of the Year award.
MADD said "accountability must be applied consistently" as part of the following statement released about Morgan's firing:
"At MADD, we value our long-standing partnership with law enforcement in Florida and across the country, including those who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to stopping impaired driving and saving lives. Recognition of that work remains essential, and we are grateful for the officers who uphold these standards every day.
We acknowledge Major Troy Morgan's many years of service to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, while also commending the organization for taking decisive action to address conduct that does not reflect the commitment to safety and responsibility that the public depends on. Accountability must be applied consistently. Upholding the law and the public’s trust requires that all law enforcement professionals, regardless of position, adhere to the same standards they are sworn to enforce. Actions that compromise safety or credibility cannot be overlooked.
MADD encourages continued investment in prevention, education, and support, including resources that address substance use and personal struggles within law enforcement and the broader community. MADD remains committed to working alongside law enforcement as the first line of defense to end impaired driving and ensure safer roads for everyone."
The website said Morgan has been a member of HCSO for over 30 years and served in multiple assignments, including DUI Enforcement, SWAT, and Street Crimes.
As a sergeant, the site said Morgan supervised in DUI Enforcement and District II Investigations.
HCSO’s website said as a captain, he commanded the Forensic Services Division, overseeing the Traffic Bureau, Evidence Section, Forensics Section, and the Identification Section.
Morgan was seen in a 2018 social media post on the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's Facebook page, receiving recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
"Deputy Carlos Brito with Lt. Troy Morgan received a thank you from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for recruiting the most team members to the District V Team on MADD."
Deputies said Morgan was fired on April 8 following an internal administrative review.
"Major Morgan dedicated many years of service to this organization, and this outcome is not one we ever want to see. But the expectations we place on our employees are clear. We are entrusted by this community to serve with integrity, sound judgment, and professionalism at all times. When those standards are not met, we must take decisive action. We also recognize that situations like this can involve personal struggles, and we hope he gets the help he needs."
Hillsborough teacher removed after video at Lithia Middle School sparks outrage
A video recorded inside a Hillsborough County classroom is drawing backlash after many parents and community members said it showed a racist act in front of students.
