TAMPA, Fla. — The two Hillsborough County deputies struck by a vehicle in Brandon two weeks ago while responding to a call are getting a boost from the community.
Deputy Manny Santos and Corporal Carlos Brito each received a $20,000 check Tuesday from Sheriff Chad Chronister to help with medical costs and expenses while they are recovering.
What You Need To Know
- Deputies struck by a vehicle in Brandon last week while responding to a call are getting a boost from the community
- Deputy Manny Santos and Corporal Carlos Brito each received a $20,000 check Tuesday for medical costs and expenses
- PREVIOUS STORY: Two Hillsborough Sheriff's deputies struck by vehicle in Brandon; Sheriff calls it 'intentional'
The funds were raised entirely through donations from the community.
Brito, who remains hospitalized, said the gesture from the community is completely unexpected but not entirely surprising.
“Everybody talks about the community helping and being involved and loving the sheriff’s office,” he said. “…but it’s not until it happens to you that you actually feel the full force of the community and how it is important in how they care for us.”
Santos, who was released from the hospital last week, continues to recover at home. Both suffered serious leg injuries when a suspect drove a vehicle into both deputies.
The man accused of striking them with a car, Ralph Bouzy, pleaded not guilty in court this week.
A judge has ordered Bouzy to receive a mental evaluation to see if he is fit to stand trial.