Sanford Police Officer resigns following domestic violence investigation

SANFORD, Fla. — Lt. Joseph Santiago resigned from the Sanford Police Department on Tuesday, according to the police department.

Police said his resignation was made retroactive April 11 after Santiago reached an agreement with the State Attorney’s Office regarding his criminal investigation.

Santiago was arrested last month for battery, police said. The 17-year veteran is accused of head-butting and punching his girlfriend after a night of drinking.%

%

Santiago’s status was changed from paid administrative leave to unpaid administrative leave on April 9.

As part of his resignation, Santiago also relinquished his Law Enforcement Certificate Tuesday.

Chief Cecil Smith stated, “Reports of this nature are taken very seriously by this department, and they are addressed and investigated immediately. We hold our officers to a higher standard of conduct, and we do not view Santiago’s off-duty actions as a reflection of the behavior and conduct of the officers of this department.”

Previous story: Police lieutenant arrested on accusations of battery

Previous story: Sanford police lieutentant headbutts, punches woman, police say

Cox Media Group