Former police officer terminated and arrested amid ongoing criminal investigation
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
SPD
The Sarasota Police Department has terminated a police officer amid an ongoing internal and criminal investigation. This is the same case that was announced on Thursday, Aug. 13, where the officer was placed on paid administrative leave during an ongoing criminal investigation involving the alleged misuse of agency technology.
Cory Waiters, 38, a former Sarasota Police officer, was arrested today, Aug. 19, and is facing charges of:
* Offenses against users of computers, computer systems, computer networks, and electronic devices, a felony.
* Official misconduct, a felony.
* Violating public records law, a misdemeanor.
An internal investigation started after the agency learned on Aug. 6, 2026, that Waiters allegedly misused law enforcement-only search databases including DAVID and Flock. An internal affairs investigation was initiated immediately, resulting in a criminal investigation, and the officer was placed on paid administrative leave on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026.
Following the launch of this investigation, an agency-wide audit was initiated on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, to ensure agency-wide compliance. The audit was completed on Friday, Aug. 14, showing agency-wide compliance.
Based on probable cause developed during the criminal investigation, Waiters is no longer employed with the Sarasota Police Department and was terminated today, Aug. 19.
“We take allegations of misconduct seriously. When an agency member’s actions fall short of the standards and professionalism we expect, we will address it appropriately and without hesitation,” said Chief Rex Troche.
Waiters is being held at the Sarasota County Jail. He has been with the agency since 2023.
Anyone with information on this case or anyone who has any information is asked to call Detective Kim Laster with the Sarasota Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 941-263-6827.
