OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – An Osceola County deputy was arrested this week after reports surfaced that he had been abusive toward his spouse, according to the sheriff’s office.

In a release, deputies said they received the reports on Thursday, prompting the sheriff’s office to immediately notify the Criminal Investigations Division to look into the issue.

From that investigation, detectives said they were able to gather enough evidence to obtain an arrest warrant for the deputy, identified as John Macerelli, 38. He faces a charge of domestic battery by strangulation.

“This incident happened while he was off-duty, and there is no prior employee misconduct involving Deputy Macerelli with the agency,” the release reads. “The reports of this crime came as a complete shock to the Sheriff’s Office.”

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According to the sheriff’s office, Macerelli was a newer employee and was still working on a probationary status, so he was fired immediately after the arrest warrant was issued.

“I have zero tolerance for domestic violence and zero tolerance for law enforcement violating the same laws they are sworn to uphold,” said Sheriff Marcos Lopez. “This case serves as an important reminder that no one is above the law. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office will continue in our mission to protect the community by holding people accountable for their actions; no matter who they are or what they do for a living.”

Anyone with information related to this case or similar incidents is urged to contact the sheriff’s office at (407) 348-2222.

No additional information has been provided.