A Mount Dora police officer resigned in July after testing positive for cocaine, avoiding termination by submitting his resignation letter before investigators could complete their internal affairs probe into multiple policy violations including illegal drug use and conduct unbecoming an officer.

Bar Incident Triggers Department Investigation

The investigation began when an Orange County sheriff’s corporal contacted Mount Dora police in early June after receiving a tip about Officer Jeremiah Murphy’s behavior at a Seminole County sports bar. According to sworn testimony from a sheriff’s deputy, a patron reported seeing Murphy intoxicated and emerging from the restroom with what appeared to be white powder on his face. The same evening, Murphy allegedly became involved in an altercation that resulted in his removal from the establishment.

Mount Dora police ordered Murphy to submit to drug testing on June 1. The test came back positive for cocaine, triggering the formal internal affairs investigation. Records released show the department sustained multiple policy violations against Murphy, including use of illegal drugs, moral character violations, and unbecoming conduct. A June 10 memo from the former police chief relieved Murphy from active duty with pay and reclassified him as a civilian employee pending the investigation’s outcome.

Officer Refuses Cooperation Before Resigning

Murphy twice ignored direct orders from his captain to contact the medical review officer and report for an interview by June 22. His refusal to cooperate preceded his July 6 resignation letter, in which he stated the decision was not made lightly. Murphy wrote that serving Mount Dora citizens had been one of the greatest privileges of his life and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to wear the badge. Department records explicitly stated that had Murphy not resigned, his discipline would have resulted in termination.

Zero Tolerance Policy Enforced

Acting Chief Jim Deleu addressed the case in an August 6 memo, emphasizing that police officers face higher standards than average citizens. The Mount Dora Police Department maintains a zero tolerance policy for officers using illegal drugs. Murphy did not respond to requests for comment on the matter. Chief Deleu declined an interview but provided a statement reaffirming the department’s commitment to maintaining professional standards. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of law enforcement conduct and the consequences officers face when violating public trust through illegal substance use while holding positions of authority.