A Pinellas school resource deputy who is under investigation after sexual harassment allegations retired on Tuesday.
Deputy Bernard D’Agostino, 52, retired on Tuesday.
Deputy D’Agostino was assigned as a school resource deputy to Carwise Middle School in Palm Harbor.
According to the sheriff’s office, the agency was made aware of the allegations on Oct. 1.
A letter was received that alleged two incident of sexual harassment involving a school employee.
During the week of Sept. 17, it was alleged Deputy D’Agostino walked behind the employee and placed both hands on her hips without permission.
On Sept. 26, it was alleged Deputy D’Agostino again walked up behind the same employee while she was talking with others beside a table of snacks.
The employee asked Deputy D’Agostino if she could have a banana and he offered to get her one, asking if she would like a “bent one or a straight one,” insinuating the bananas were penises.
After making the statement, D’Agostino laughed and continued to make inappropriate comments to the employee.
The allegations were confirmed by witnesses.
Deputy D’Agostino was removed from his assignment as soon as the sheriff’s office learned of the allegations.
When interviewed, D’Agostino did not recall touching the employee, but admitted to making the statement regarding the banana, but said he did not intend to make any implication.
He was notified he would be reassigned to patrol and placed under investigation, at which time he decided to retire.
