A Hernando County Sheriff’s Office detective has resigned following allegations of misusing funds belonging to the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 164.
On November 8, 2024, the FOP alerted the Sheriff’s Office about suspected unauthorized use of its credit and debit cards by the organization’s former treasurer. After consulting with members, the FOP formally requested a criminal investigation on November 14.
Detective Bruce Nichols, 45, who had served with the Sheriff’s Office since 2006, resigned the following day. Sheriff Al Nienhuis commented on the case, stating, “Despite Nichols having a career marked with significant achievements, we can assure the victim organization and the public, the investigation will be thorough and complete. It is our hope that the investigation will either definitively exonerate Nichols or provide the State Attorney with a prosecutable case that will allow the victim organization to obtain justice.”
The investigation remains in its early stages, with further details expected as it progresses.
