Longtime St. Johns County deputy arrested, charged with lewd and lascivious molestation

Jacksonville, FL — A deputy who has been with the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office for 17 years has been arrested, following an investigation into lewd and lascivious behavior.

The sheriff's office says the allegations against 51-year-old Jeffrey Cook stem from conduct several years ago. Investigators say Cook is accused of inappropriately touching a victim, who was a juvenile at the time, over the course of 6 years.

The sheriff's office says Sheriff David Shoar was notified of the allegations Thursday night, leading up to Cook's arrest on Friday.

“Anyone who has heard me speak on these types of crimes, knows that I value our children, as well as seniors, as our highest priority for protection. I am both angry and saddened by these events, and while this incident involves one individual, it is not reflective of our agency or this honorable profession. As we have in the past, we will continue to police ourselves, and hold our people accountable, to ensure we maintain the highest standards of our profession," says Shoar speaking about Cook's arrest.

Sheriff Shoar says he terminated Cook’s employment, as he was being arrested.

Currently, Cook is charged with one count of lewd and lascivious molestation, as detectives continue to investigate the allegations.

The sheriff's office says there are no indications of any other victims, but they are asking anyone with additional information to contact Detective Sergeant George Harrigan at (904) 209-2443.