📍 Volusia County, FL — A former deputy with the Volusia Sheriff’s Office is facing felony charges after allegedly orchestrating a calculated financial fraud scheme that exploited banking systems and his own law enforcement status. Authorities have charged Douglas Meyer, 37, with organized scheme to defraud, following an investigation into a series of deceptive transactions between credit unions.
According to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, Meyer engaged in a check kiting operation, a form of financial fraud where checks are written between accounts at different banks or credit unions to artificially inflate account balances. Meyer allegedly wrote checks from one credit union to another without sufficient funds, accessing money during the delay in check clearance — a tactic that allowed him to temporarily withdraw unearned cash.
In one particularly audacious move, Meyer reportedly arrived at a credit union branch in full uniform, requesting that the institution release a hold on his deposited checks. Investigators believe this was a deliberate attempt to leverage his authority and uniform to override standard banking protocols.
🕵️♂️ Timeline of Alleged Misconduct
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Meyer served with the Volusia Sheriff’s Office from 2020 to 2024, and briefly returned in 2025 before resigning in August.
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The alleged fraud was flagged by one of Meyer’s credit unions in September, prompting an internal investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.
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Meyer turned himself in voluntarily last night after felony charges were filed.
“This ex-deputy’s badge will be melted down,” said a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office. “My goal is to make sure he’s held accountable and never works in law enforcement again.”
⚖️ Breach of Trust and Legal Ramifications
The Sheriff’s Office has condemned Meyer’s actions as a betrayal of public trust and a violation of the ethical standards expected of law enforcement personnel. Officials emphasized that Meyer’s conduct not only undermines the integrity of the badge but also risks eroding community confidence in the justice system.
Under Florida law, organized scheme to defraud is a serious felony offense that can carry significant prison time, especially when committed by a public official. The charge reflects a pattern of intentional deception for financial gain, rather than a one-time lapse in judgment.
🔍 Internal Review and Safeguards
In response to the incident, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office has launched a review of internal safeguards, including financial disclosure protocols and off-duty conduct policies. The agency is working closely with prosecutors and financial institutions to ensure full accountability and transparency throughout the legal process.
Meyer’s arrest serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law, and that the uniform must never be used as a shield for personal misconduct. As the case proceeds, the department has pledged to uphold its commitment to ethical enforcement and public service — even when it means holding its own to the highest standard.
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