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Hernando Today

Deputy Cleared Of Domestic Violence Charge

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By KYLE MARTIN

Hernando Today

Published: June 7, 2008

BROOKSVILLE - Prosecutors dropped a charge of domestic battery against Springstead High School's school resource officer on Thursday.

Deputy Tommy Harris was placed on paid leave following his arrest in April for a complaint stemming from January. At that time, Harris' live-in girlfriend told police that he picked her up and dropped her, but there was no evidence to prove that. The State Attorney's Office filed the charge four months later.

On Thursday, the alleged victim, Tara Whittaker, recanted her statement under oath at the State Attorney's Office, said the case prosecutor Amy Germann.

She was subsequently arrested on charges of making a false report and perjury.

Harris was reinstated on the force that same day.

Sgt. Donna Black, spokeswoman, said it's likely that Harris will go back to Springstead when classes resume, but, as with all the SROs, the exact school assignment is unknown at this point.

Reporter Kyle Martin can be reached at 352-544-5271 or kmartin@hernandotoday.com.

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