Commissioner says slain deputy was a family man

By the Times Staff
Published August 15, 2007

ADVERTISEMENT Hillsborough sheriff's Sgt. Ron Harrison had worked in law enforcement before becoming a deputy.

TAMPA - Hillsborough sheriff's Sgt. Ron Harrison, who was shot and killed, early Wednesday, had served the Sheriff's Office for more than 27 years. His colleagues and friends remember him as a family man and dedicated law enforcement officer.

Hillsborough County commissioner Kevin White had known Harrison for more than 25 years. The two attended the same church when they were younger, and White said he admired Harrison's commitment to family and his work ethic.

"He was a great, fun-loving individual," White said. "But when it was time for work, it was time for work. He took his job very seriously."

Harrison had worked in law enforcement prior to becoming a deputy with the Hillsborough Sheriff's Office, White said. But when Harrison's wife at the time joined the FBI, he put her career first, White said.

"How dedicated he is to his family really shows," White said.

[Last modified August 15, 2007, 21:02:16]