CLAY COUNTY, Fla. — A Clay County sheriff’s deputy has been arrested on two domestic battery charges after investigators determined he repeatedly shoved family members during a disturbance at his home Sunday night.
Deputy Claude Hurley III was arrested following an investigation into the November 1, 2026, incident and has been placed on administrative leave, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to Hurley’s residence at approximately 9:15 p.m. after receiving a report of a disturbance involving several family members.
Hurley, who lives at the home with relatives, was not there when responding deputies arrived. Authorities said he had reportedly been drinking alcohol before becoming involved in a physical confrontation with family members.
Investigators Say Deputy Shoved Two Family Members
According to the Sheriff’s Office, investigators examined the scene, interviewed witnesses and reviewed recorded video footage to determine what happened.
The investigation found that Hurley grabbed food a family member was eating and threw it across the room before shoving that person.
Authorities said Hurley continued yelling and repeatedly pushed the family member as they attempted to get away from the confrontation.
When another family member arrived and tried to intervene, Hurley allegedly continued yelling and pushed that person as well.
No injuries were reported.
Investigators determined there was sufficient evidence to charge Hurley with simple battery involving two family members.
Deputy Arrested and Placed on Administrative Leave
Detectives later met Hurley at another location and interviewed him about the incident.
Following the interview, Hurley was arrested on two counts of simple battery (domestic).
The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Hurley has been placed on administrative leave following his arrest.
In a statement addressing the incident, the agency condemned domestic violence and emphasized that deputies are expected to meet high standards of conduct.
“Acts of domestic violence are unacceptable and will not be tolerated – especially when committed by an individual entrusted to wear our badge,” the Sheriff’s Office stated.
“The badge we wear demands the highest level of responsibility and integrity. These actions fall short of that standard, and we will not shy away from transparency and accountability.”
Domestic Violence Resources in Clay County
The Sheriff’s Office encouraged anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek assistance.
Residents can call 911 in an emergency or contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 904-264-6512. Tips can also be submitted through the agency’s SaferWatch app.
Additional assistance is available through Quigley House at 904-284-0061, which provides support to people experiencing domestic violence.