Hardee County Deputy Fired for Animal Mistreatment

The Hardee County Sheriff's Office terminated Deputy Nicholas Zotto on June 2, 2026, following a review of videos showing him mistreating animals in his care.

Zotto, 29, worked for the agency since April 2022. He owns Pawsome Sitters, LLC, a pet-sitting business.

Sheriff's Office officials said Zotto's actions violated the ethical and professional standards required of law enforcement personnel.