A deputy in Palm Beach County was terminated after sending inappropriate text messages to teenage girls. According to the outlet, Eric Devaul, a former Deputy Sheriff with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO), engaged in improper communication with two 18-year-old students from Seminole Ridge Community High School. The internal affairs investigation began on April 11, 2024, and concluded with Devaul admitting to the misconduct and subsequently losing his job after 11 years on the force, as reported by CBS12 News.
The internal affairs review found that while Devaul did not breach any Florida state statutes, his actions were a clear violation of the department's code of conduct. He notably sent flirtatious messages to the girls, who were friends of his son's girlfriend, both while on and off duty, attempting to negatively affect their peace of mind. "I was trying to mess with her head," Devaul said, according to a CBS12 News interview.
Moreover, the texts included insinuations of a sexual relationship and unprofessional comments. According to the internal investigation, one student received a message from Devaul asking if she would help him shower, along with references to using handcuffs. Another student recounted an incident where Deputy Devaul used his official vehicle and emergency lights in what appeared to be an attempt to intimidate her as she walked home. Devaul also exhibited concerning conduct by waiting for the girls near their classrooms and in the school courtyard area, as noted in the internal affairs report obtained by CBS12 News.
In a response to the inquiry, PBSO conveyed a clear stance on the issue in a statement. "The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office holds all deputies to the highest standards of conduct, both on and off duty, as outlined in our Rules and Regulations Code of Conduct. Following a recent internal review, Deputy Sheriff Eric Devaul was found to have engaged in conduct that did not align with these standards," the department said, emphasizing its commitment to uphold transparency, accountability, and the community's trust. In line with these values, the internal review process led to swiftly severing ties with Devaul due to his inappropriate actions, as per information provided by a WPTV report.
Since the revelations, there has been no additional comment from Eric Devaul. When CBS12 News reporters approached his residence seeking a statement, they were turned away. However, the investigation and his dismissal underline PBSO's rigorous adherence to ethical standards and the seriousness with which it addresses violations of the code of conduct by its officers.
