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Deputies arrested on sexual offenses with subjects under 18, couple on the run

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Investigators are also looking for Douglas Albert Manning, 47, and Leah Giannotti Manning, 40, on outstanding warrants for sexual battery and child neglect. They were last seen in the area of 2000 Berg Street and are known to drive a 2013 Red Chevrolet Camaro with Florida tag M596YZ.

Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to call 911, (850) 436-9620 or Crime Stoppers at (850) 433-STOP.

Along with these two suspects, in the course of this investigation, it was determined that two deputies were involved in sexual offenses with subjects under the age of 18.

Senior Deputy Mark Gene Smith was arrested and charged with Felony Sexual Assault and Misdemeanor Battery. Deputy Walter Michael Thomas was arrested and charged with Felony Sexual Assault. Both are being held without bond and have been placed on Administrative Leave.

Smith was hired March 14, 2005, and had served on patrol since October 7, 2005. Thomas was hired April 6, 2009, and had served on patrol since September 2, 2009.

The investigation is being conducted in conjunction with the State Attorney’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is ongoing and no further details will be released at this time. Sheriff David Morgan plans to release more information on the case during a press conference on Monday.

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