ARCADIA, Fla. — A former DeSoto County Jail corrections supervisor has been arrested following an investigation into allegations that he used excessive and unjustified force against two inmates, authorities said.
Luis Tovar, a former detention sergeant and shift supervisor, faces two counts of battery stemming from an incident that occurred early December 13 inside the DeSoto County Jail. Investigators say the use of force happened while inmates were being moved between cells.
According to the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, surveillance and body-worn camera footage captured Tovar repeatedly striking two inmates who were already restrained. Officials said the actions appeared to be unprovoked and not in line with department policies or training.
Sheriff James Potter said the behavior shown in the video was unacceptable and emphasized that corrections staff are held to the same legal standards as the public. He stated that there was no justification for the level of force used during the incident.
The investigation determined that Tovar struck one inmate following a verbal exchange and later assaulted another inmate who was handcuffed. The footage reportedly shows repeated punches, kicks, and physical force during the encounter.
Following an internal review, Tovar was terminated from his position and later taken into custody. He was released after posting bond and is scheduled to appear in court in January 2026.
The sheriff’s office stated that the case remains under review and that any employee found violating policy or the law will be held accountable.
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New: Detention Sergeant Arrested for Battery on Inmates, Fired
DeSoto County, FL- Deputy Luis Tovar (36) arrested on two counts of battery after Dec 13, 2025 incident at DeSoto County Jail where he used unlawful force against two inmates while on duty.
The incident sparked an… pic.twitter.com/QiuvBVP69I
— The Facts Dude 🤙🏽 (@Thefactsdude) December 23, 2025