Lauderhill, Fla. – The Lauderhill Police Department announced Tuesday that Officer Brian Sguros, 35, has resigned after an internal affairs investigation uncovered serious allegations of misconduct involving a deceased resident’s home.

Allegations and charges

According to an arrest affidavit, Sguros and other officers responded to a welfare check in July 2022. The check revealed a resident who had died of natural causes. Investigators later alleged that Sguros seized the vacant property without legal authority, used the homeowner’s personal identification information, and forged a notary’s name and seal on a City of Lauderhill building‑permit application. He is also accused of using his police‑department cellphone and computers to send the fraudulent documents and to look up the deceased resident’s records.

Sguros now faces multiple charges, including criminal use of a deceased person’s personal identification information, criminal use of personal identification information, and an offense against users of computers.

Department response

Chief Constance Stanley issued a statement emphasizing the department’s commitment to trust and integrity: “The trust of our residents is the foundation of everything we do. When residents call us, they are inviting us into their homes and their lives at their most vulnerable moments, and they must be able to trust that every officer who answers that call is there solely to serve them. Conduct that betrays that trust will not be tolerated in this Department. We acted swiftly and thoroughly, and we will continue to hold every member of this Department to the highest standards of integrity.”

Timeline of actions

The investigation began on May 27 after a complaint was filed. On July 22, Sguros was placed on administrative leave with pay pending the outcome of the inquiry. Following his arrest, he was placed on administrative leave without pay. His bond was set at $25,000. The department says the investigation also identified the lawful heirs of the deceased homeowner.

Community impact

Residents expressed concern that a law‑enforcement officer could exploit a vulnerable situation for personal gain. The Lauderhill Police Department reiterated that it will continue to enforce strict oversight and that any officer who violates the public’s trust will face decisive action.

While the case is still pending in court, the department’s swift response and Sguros’s resignation aim to reassure the community that accountability remains a top priority.

Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.