CLEARWATER, Fla. — A former Pinellas County school guardian is facing charges after authorities said he pawned his issued firearm and equipment for gas money.
- Ex-Pinellas school guardian charged with pawning equipment
- Erick Russell charged with five counts of false verification
- Authorities said Russell pawned his gun and issued-equipment multiple times
According to Pinellas detectives, 37-year-old Erick Russell was arrested by deputies for domestic battery and false imprisonment. During the arrest, deputies learned Russell was employed as a School Guardian and collected his issued equipment that was provided by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
The issued equipment included a Glock 17 9mm handgun with two magazines, a Body Armor vest, and additional items that were issued for the sole purpose of performing the duties of a School Guardian.
Through the investigation, detectives were informed that Russell had previously pawned his issued firearm, magazines and vest, on multiple occasions, at Value Pawn on US 19 North in Clearwater.
Authorities said Russell pawned his issued gun on July 3 for $200.00, and on July 17 for $60.00. Russell pawned two issued Glock 17 9mm magazines on July 2 for $10.00, and on August 1 for $15.00. Russell also pawned his issued Body Armor vest on July 26 for $200.00. Russell would then re-purchase the pawned items on later dates.
When interviewed by detectives, Russell admitted to pawning the issued firearm and equipment due to needing gas money. He has been charged with five counts of false verification.
An investigation is ongoing.
When interviewed by detectives, Russell admitted to pawning the issued firearm and equipment due to needing gas money. He has been charged with five counts of false verification. (Pinellas County Jail)