JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) officer with more than eleven years of service has been arrested and charged following allegations that he falsified overtime reports and improperly received more than $14,000 in public funds.
The announcement was made Thursday by Sheriff T.K. Waters.
Officer Identified and Charges Filed
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Officer Christian Madsen was arrested on three felony charges:
- Grand theft (third-degree felony)
- Organized fraud (third-degree felony)
- Official misconduct (third-degree felony)
SO confirmed that Madsen was immediately suspended from duty following his arrest.
Sheriff Waters stated, “As we have said many times before, no one is above the law.”
Allegations Involving Overtime Reports
Officials stated that the investigation began after information was received by JSO’s Integrity Unit regarding possible irregularities in overtime submissions.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Madsen allegedly submitted falsified overtime reports for traffic enforcement assignments that he did not perform.
Investigators allege that:
- The conduct occurred between December 1, 2025, and February 7.
- More than 200 hours of overtime were claimed.
- Some or all of the reported overtime work was not completed.
- The total compensation exceeded $14,000.
According to JSO, the funds in question were sourced from:
- The City of Jacksonville
- Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) grant reimbursements
The Sheriff’s Office stated that the alleged actions reflected ongoing criminal conduct rather than administrative error.
Employment Background
According to JSO, Officer Madsen:
- Was hired on October 20, 2014
- Has served more than eleven years with the agency
Officials stated that the agency intends to seek his termination in accordance with due process procedures.
Agency Response
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office stated that transparency and accountability remain priorities. Officials reiterated that any employee found to have violated the law will be held accountable.
This arrest marks the second arrest of a JSO employee in 2026, according to the agency.
Sheriff Waters emphasized that no individual within the agency is exempt from investigation or prosecution when criminal allegations arise.
Current Status
As of the latest update
- Officer Christian Madsen has been arrested.
- He faces three third-degree felony charges.
- He has been suspended from duty.
- An internal and criminal investigation remains ongoing.
- The agency plans to seek termination pending due process.
No court disposition has been reported at this time. All charges are allegations, and the case will proceed through the judicial process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a third-degree felony in Florida?
Under Florida law, a third-degree felony is punishable by up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000, depending on judicial determination.
What is “official misconduct”?
Florida law defines official misconduct as unlawful behavior by a public servant related to the duties of their office. A conviction requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
What triggered the investigation?
According to JSO, the agency’s Integrity Unit received information regarding possible falsified overtime reporting, which led to the investigation.
Has the officer been terminated?
No. JSO stated that it intends to seek termination, but due process procedures must be followed before final employment action is completed.
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