An Osceola County deputy was arrested this week after allegations surfaced that he had been abusive toward his spouse, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy John Macerelli, 38, was taken into custody after an investigation led by the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) determined there was sufficient evidence to obtain an arrest warrant. Macerelli faces a charge of domestic battery by strangulation, a serious offense under Florida law.
Authorities said they received reports of the alleged abuse on February 27, 2025, prompting an immediate response from the Sheriff’s Office. Investigators quickly launched a probe into the claims, gathering enough evidence to move forward with the arrest.
“I have zero tolerance for domestic violence and zero tolerance for law enforcement violating the same laws they are sworn to uphold,” Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez said. “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.”
The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Macerelli was a relatively new employee still on probationary status, leading to his immediate termination following the issuance of his arrest warrant. Officials also noted that there was no prior record of employee misconduct involving Macerelli with the agency.
“The reports of this crime came as a complete shock to the Sheriff’s Office,” the department stated in a release.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding this case or similar incidents to come forward. Those with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office at (407) 348-2222.
