Police Officer Porfirio Soto, Jr.

Police Officer Porfirio Soto, Jr. | Tampa Police Department, Florida
Tampa Police Department, Florida
Police Officer Porfirio Soto, Jr.

Tampa Police Department, Florida

End of Watch Friday, December 30, 1988

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Porfirio Soto, Jr.

Officer Porfirio Soto was shot and killed as he and another officer served an arrest warrant at 3710 E. Idlewild Avenue.

The subject was wanted in a neighboring jurisdiction for armed robbery, aggravated battery, and carrying a concealed firearm. A struggle ensued inside of the suspect's home in which Officer Soto was shot in an area not protected by his vest.

The man fled the home after shooting Officer Sorto but was arrested a short time later. He was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. He hanged himself in prison on April 13th, 1997.

Officer Soto was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the Tampa Police Department for 18 months. He is survived by his wife and 10-month-old son.

Bio

  • Age 26
  • Tour 1 year, 6 months
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Committed suicide in prison

robbery, warrant service, weapons violation

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I lived in Tampa at the time this happened. I had 3 family members at the time who were in law enforcement so when Officer Soto was murdered. On the day of his funeral, I remember seeing the procession and people pulled over. We stood outside our cars and saluted him as they drove by. That he was deprived of being able to see his son grow up was so unfair. It stood out to me for those reasons and through the years, the memories pop up. I hope all officers stay safe and thank you for protecting us. Am keeping his wife and son in my prayers.

Cathy Napoli

March 11, 2024

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