FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – More details were released Wednesday about the Broward sheriff's deputy who has been suspended in connection with an investigation into whether or not he leaked security footage of the Fort Lauderdale airport shooting.
Deputy Michael Dingman has been suspended with pay pending an internal affairs investigation about the video, which shows the moment Esteban Santiago allegedly opened fire inside Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Dingman was notified Tuesday about his suspension in a letter.
File: Letter of suspension to Deputy Michael Dingman
"While under suspension, you will surrender your BSO ID card, all badges, and BSO vehicle, if applicable," the letter said. "You will take no action under the colors of the Broward County Sheriff's Office. You are restricted from entering any Broward Sheriff's Office facility or onto any Broward Sheriff's Office property, unless directed to or authorized by the Division of Internal Affairs."
No one came to the door Tuesday night at Dingman's home, but Local 10 News has learned that the deputy has been employed by BSO for more than two decades.
He was even recognized as employee of the month in 2003.
"To know that somebody with that type of security clearance could think that it's OK to leak evidence into a media organization really didn't settle well with us, and it is a crime," Broward County Mayor Barbara Sharief said.
Sharief said FBI investigators were able to enhance a reflection from the video to help identify the person who recorded the video. With the naked eye, you can see a hand on the screen.
"We want to fully apologize from the bottom of our hearts and send our deepest sympathies and condolences to the victims and their families for having to watch this on national television," Sharief said.
If Dingman is found to have leaked the video he could face charges, including impeding a federal investigation.
Five people were killed and six others were injured from gunshot wounds. Broward Health Medical Center officials said three victims remained hospitalized on Wednesday.