NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A Pasco County HUD housing inspector was arrested and accused of sexual battery, and police said there might be more victims.
New Port Richey Police Department (NPRPD) said the alleged sexual battery happened at an apartment complex on U.S. Highway 19.
Police said, through investigation, they found Joseph Gioielli had conducted a HUD inspection at the victim's apartment.
After the inspection, Gioielli is accused of leaving the apartment but then returning to the residence shortly after. NPRPD said, from the investigation, they believe he then engaged in sexual acts with the victim.
Gioielli was charged with Official Misconduct by a Public Servant.
Officials said Pasco HUD housing staff have cooperated with the investigation.
NPRPD said they suspect there may be more victims and are urging anyone who believes Gioielli may have victimized them to contact NPRPD at 727-841-4550.
ABC Action News is using a mugshot of Gioelli due to his alleged use of his official position and the possibility that there are other victims.
“You know, it might just be time we take a look if HOAs are really even necessary.
Maybe we should just do away with homeowner associations as a whole.”
South Florida lawmaker Rep. Juan Carlos Porras (R-Miami) says it may be time to do away with homeowners associations altogether, as more Floridians speak out about rising fees, costly lawsuits, and even arrests tied to HOA disputes. He said this week that he is considering filing legislation in the next session that would abolish HOAs statewide.
