DESOTO COUNTY, FLORIDA — A Florida detention deputy has been arrested and fired after investigators discovered screenshots of partially and fully nude female inmates on a sheriff’s office computer.
Douglas Chirinos, 35, was arrested October 26 after an internal investigation uncovered what authorities described as unauthorized computer activity at the DeSoto County Jail.
According to an arrest affidavit reported by local news outlets, the images involved at least three female inmates and were captured between April and October 2026.
How Investigators Discovered the Images
The investigation began October 23 when the sheriff’s office information technology department flagged a possible security breach.
Chirinos was initially suspected of downloading unauthorized programs onto an agency computer, including streaming services.
During a review of the computer, investigators discovered folders containing screenshots from the jail’s surveillance system.
Some images reportedly showed women inside an isolation cell wearing little or no clothing. Investigators also reported that certain images had been enlarged to focus on the women.
Unauthorized Access to Employee Accounts
Authorities allege Chirinos bypassed computer security measures to access other employees’ accounts.
Investigators also discovered criminal case information that he had no official reason to access.
According to reporting on the arrest affidavit, Chirinos acknowledged that additional images might be stored on his personal cellphone.
He was charged with a third-degree felony involving unauthorized access to computer systems.
The sheriff’s office terminated his employment following the discovery. Chirinos had worked for the agency since 2025.
Sheriff Responds to Allegations
DeSoto County Sheriff James Potter publicly condemned the alleged conduct.
The sheriff described the discovery as deeply disturbing and said the department would hold those responsible accountable.
Authorities said investigators had identified affected inmates and were working to notify them.
Questions Remain About Jail Surveillance
The case raises broader questions about how correctional facilities protect the privacy of people in custody.
Jail surveillance cameras are intended to support security and inmate safety. However, investigators allege that images from those systems were accessed and saved for purposes unrelated to official duties.
Authorities have not publicly established whether any images were shared outside the sheriff’s office or whether additional people were affected.
As of November 2, no final court disposition had been verified, and the investigation remained ongoing.
Chirinos is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The Johnny Report will continue monitoring the case for additional charges, court proceedings, and findings concerning jail surveillance safeguards.
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