Former Deputy Sheriff Dies by Suicide After Arrest

Anthony Michael Russo, a former Riverside County sheriff's deputy, died by suicide on December 20 at his home in Arrowbear Lake, following his arrest on December 11 for attempting to engage in sexual acts with a minor. Russo, 52, was arrested after an undercover investigator posed as a 15-year-old and communicated with him, during which he shared explicit material and expressed intent to meet. He was booked on felony charges but was released on $50,000 bail and scheduled to appear in court on January 24. Following his arrest, Russo resigned from his position in the sheriff's department. The Riverside County Sheriff's Office expressed condolences to his family and friends but stated they could not provide further details due to the case being outside their jurisdiction. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the mental health of law enforcement personnel amid serious allegations.