Details:
Arrested:
August Michael Mastropole
White Male
DOB: 10/14/1978
Former Multi-Trades Worker for HCSO
Around 4:30 p.m. on June 19, 2019, August Michael Mastropole, 40, arrived at the Home Depot located at 1524 Brandon Blvd in Valrico and used a fraudulent business credit account to purchase nearly $600 worth of merchandise, including three $100 Visa gift cards.
The fraudulent business credit account was registered to "Bombon Constructions." The business owner, who does not know Mastropole, advised he did not open a Home Depot credit account.
Detectives investigating the case learned that Mastropole later sold the three 100 Visa gift cards. After being interviewed, Mastropole claimed he obtained the gift cards by returning items to the store. He later admitted to shopping at Home Depot the same date and time the gift cards were purchased, but claimed he used a Home Depot credit card registered to another company, which proved to be false.
Mastropole was arrested on Monday, July 15, and charged with Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card, Grand Theft Third Degree and Dealing in Stolen Property. Mastroplole previously worked as a multi-trades worker for HCSO. He was terminated on July 9.
"The behavior of this individual is disappointing, and it is unacceptable for anyone who represents HCSO," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Whether it's a civilian or sworn employee, past or present, we hold members of this agency to a higher standard. We are fortunate that our skilled detectives were able to catch Mr. Mastropole before he could defraud anyone else out of their hard-earned money."