The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating an officer involved shooting that occurred last night at 1051 Covina Street, in the unincorporated area of Cocoa.
The incident began on Thursday, August 20, 2015 at approximately 9:30 P.M., while Investigative Agents were conducting a criminal investigation regarding a complaint of prostitution. As the Investigative Agents attempted to arrest a female occupant of the residence, a male exited the residence and fired shots at the deputies, several of which struck Agent John “Casey” Smith. Agent Smith returned fire, striking the male occupant.
Agent Smith has been employed with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office since August, 2009. He is currently assigned as an Investigative Agent in the Criminal Investigations Division. During his employment, he has been awarded with multiple letters of appreciation, commendable service awards, a deputy of the month, and a meritorious award.
Agent Smith was critically wounded and transported to the hospital. Agent Smith is in critical condition and has undergone several surgeries for his extensive injuries. His condition is still critical and unstable at this time.
Agent Peter Stead and Agent Jason Roberts were also assisting in the incident.
Agent Peter Stead has been employed with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office since October, 2011. He is currently assigned as an Agent. During his employment he has been awarded with multiple letters of appreciation, commendable service awards, and a meritorious award.
Agent Jason Roberts has been employed with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office since December, 2009. He is currently assigned as an Agent. During his employment he has been awarded with multiple letters of appreciation, commendable service awards, a deputy of the month, and multiple meritorious awards.
The male suspect in this incident is identified as 65-year-old John Franklin Derossett, of 1051 Covina Street, Cocoa. Mr. Derossett was wounded in the incident and is receiving medical treatment at a local hospital. He has no local arrest history.
The female suspect that was taken into custody is identified as 42-year-old Mary Ellyn Derossett, of 1051 Covina Street, Cocoa. Mrs. Derossett was charged today with Solicitation for Prostitution and transported to the Brevard County Jail on $500.00 Bond. She was arrested in July of this year for the same offense and has a previous history of domestic violence, drug, and alcohol related offenses.
Sheriff’s Office Homicide agents and Crime Scene Investigators have been on scene throughout the night and are still processing evidence.
The details surrounding the shooting are currently under investigation and The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will both be conducting independent and parallel investigations relating to the use of deadly force. Upon conclusion of the investigations, the cases will be presented to the State Attorney for review.
The Investigative Agents involved in this incident have been placed on paid Administrative Leave, which is a routine practice during investigations of this nature.
Sheriff Wayne Ivey stated “I couldn’t have been more proud of our team and community for the incredible support for Agent Smith and his family during this difficult time. Our BCFR partners were incredible as they did everything possible to provide Casey with a fighting chance! Our BCSO family has Casey in our thoughts and prayers and we ask that tonight you hold him in your prayers as well!!
Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to please call Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Agent Martin at 321-633-8409, or CRIMELINE at 1- 800-423-TIPS (8477), you can also visit https://crimeline.org/, or text ‘crimeline’ plus your tip toCRIME (274637). All information to CRIMELINE is confidential and you may be eligible for a reward.
