A deputy who once held the title of Brevard County’s 2025 Deputy of the Year has resigned amid serious allegations of misconduct, including a disturbing photograph where he appears to perform a Nazi salute.
Michael Fultz, 24, stepped down in May 2023 as Sheriff Wayne Ivey prepared to dismiss him for what the agency labeled “egregious misconduct,” according to internal records acquired by News 6.
The turmoil erupted after an email from Fultz’s ex-girlfriend prompted an investigation by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO). Her message highlighted conduct that potentially contradicted departmental policies and professional standards.
Fultz had been celebrated for his actions in April 2025, which saved the life of a distressed mother during a fatal shooting, awarding him both the Deputy of the Year title and the Medal of Valor.
Ironically, the ex-girlfriend’s email arrived on the same day he was honored with those accolades. “My intention in providing this information is not to pursue personal retaliation but to ensure the agency is aware of conduct that…” she stated in the email.
Among the claims under investigation was a pre-hire photograph showing Fultz with a mustache styled to resemble Adolf Hitler. Upon questioning, he admitted to posing for this image but insisted it was intended as a joke.
Investigators also uncovered troubling text messages wherein Fultz used the N-word repeatedly, claiming that he grew up in a foster home with Black parents and siblings, a background he maintained normalized the language for him.
More alarming revelations came to light when he confirmed he had brandished a gun in a sexually suggestive manner towards his ex-girlfriend, an act that he admitted disregarded all firearm safety training he had received.
Additionally, the investigators assessed evidence including a FaceTime call during which Fultz appeared in his patrol car while dressed in uniform. These instances raised serious concerns about his professionalism and adherence to departmental protocols.
Fultz also faced scrutiny for allegedly using the agency’s license plate reader system to track his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle. An audit disclosed that he queried her license plate once before a shift, logged as “investigation,” though he denied any malicious intent.
The situation escalated when it was reported that Fultz had been clocked at 111 mph on his motorcycle, a speed sufficient to warrant arrest under Florida law. However, a trooper opted for a civil citation instead, citing concerns about jeopardizing Fultz’s career.
“I’m not going to take you to jail, Fultz,” stated Trooper Joshua Provencher, who instead issued a $155 ticket.
Ultimately, Sheriff Ivey noted that Fultz’s actions had “irreparably damaged the trust” essential for carrying out the duties of a deputy sheriff.
After the internal investigation concluded, Fultz chose to resign on May 27, rather than face termination. He later expressed disagreement with the investigation’s findings and conclusions.
This resignation marks a significant fall from grace for a deputy who once enjoyed a celebrated status within the BCSO. It raises questions about oversight and accountability within law enforcement agencies.
The BCSO has not only lost a decorated deputy but has also faced the scrutiny of how such troubling behavior could go unchecked until an external complaint was raised.
As the investigation unfolds, the BCSO must navigate the implications of this incident on its reputation and public trust.
For now, Fultz’s resignation under these serious allegations serves as a reminder of the need for accountability in law enforcement and the challenges officers face in maintaining public trust.
