Derek Zitko HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. - The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested Derek Zitko, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel,
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Derek Zitko, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, on charges of Lewd or Lascivious Battery and Molestation involving a juvenile victim.
The investigation was launched after a victim came forward earlier this month, revealing that the incidents occurred in 2013 when Zitko befriended the victim’s family. At the time, Zitko was 40-41 years old, and the victim was 13-14 years old.
Read: Career Criminal Busted For Lowe’s Barcode Scheme In Hillsborough County, Clearwater Stores
On August 20, 2024, Zitko, now 52, voluntarily turned himself in after an arrest warrant was issued.
“Our determination to seek justice does not diminish over time, and no one is above the law, regardless of their position or past,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I commend the bravery of this survivor for coming forward and sharing their story. Their courage has been crucial in ensuring this offender faces justice. We will always stand with victims and work tirelessly to hold offenders accountable.”
Read: 18-Year-Old Suspect Arrested In Plant City Fatal Stabbing: Hillsborough County Sheriff
Zitko served in the U.S. Army from June 1994 until his retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel in May 2015. He was also involved with the Chapel at Fishhawk for approximately seven years, serving as a small group leader and youth volunteer from 2018 to 2022.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office believes there may be additional victims and urges anyone with information to come forward by calling (813) 247-8200.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
