A Hernando County Sheriff’s Office sergeant received the Florida SWAT Association Medal of Valor on Wednesday, November 11. Sergeant Teodoro Chavez earned the award for his actions during a September 10 shooting that wounded two deputies. The ceremony took place at the Marriott Orlando Airport Lakeside Hotel in Orlando.
In the early morning hours of September 10, SWAT team members were assisting in executing a search warrant at 8374 Coral Street in Spring Hill. The warrant related to the sale of illegal narcotics. As a SWAT Bearcat was used to breach the front door, Anthony Cusati fired multiple rounds from inside the house. Two deputies were struck and sustained minor injuries.
The Sheriff’s Office said Chavez’s response helped ensure his teammates received immediate medical care while the team continued the mission. In a social media post, HCSO described his actions as demonstrating courage, decisiveness, and self-sacrifice. The agency congratulated him on the recognition and thanked him for his bravery and dedication to his fellow team members and the citizens of Hernando County.
Fox 13 reported that the sheriff said deputies did not return fire because they could not see the shooter. Fox 13 also reported that the cocaine investigation into the location had run for several months before the raid. The Hernando Sun reported that Sgt. Scott Lewis, an 11-year veteran, was struck twice, with one bullet hitting his body-worn camera. The Hernando Sun also reported that Cusati faces at least six prior felony charges and a previous homicide arrest that was reduced to improper display of a firearm. Fox 13 and the Hernando Sun both said both wounded deputies were expected to recover.
Originally reported by Hernando Sun and Fox 13
Related Posts
Spring Hill House Fire Ruled Arson, Suspect Arrested After Blaze Spreads to Brush
Spring Hill Man Charged with Second-Degree Murder After Shooting Neighbor Over Loud Music
Suspicious Vehicle Sparks Concerns of Attempted Child Abduction in Spring Hill
Missing 16-Year-Old Found Murdered in Spring Hill, Boyfriend in Custody