A Groveland police sergeant has resigned from the Groveland Police Department following an internal investigation into his use of a department vehicle and allegations that he repeatedly drove at speeds exceeding 100 mph while traveling to work. The city confirmed Friday that Sgt. Alexander Jarrell resigned from the department, effective immediately.

According to an internal investigation, Jarrell was recorded driving a marked Groveland Police Department vehicle at speeds of 120 mph, 112 mph and 124 mph on three separate occasions in May. Investigators also found that the vehicle’s emergency lights were activated during the incidents, despite there being no emergency response underway.

Investigators determined that the incidents occurred while Jarrell was traveling to work. GPS data from the patrol vehicle, along with other evidence reviewed during the investigation, was used to establish the vehicle’s speed and timing.

Jarrell had previously received a three-day suspension, lost the use of his take-home department vehicle for 30 days and was placed under disciplinary restrictions for six months.

The disciplinary decision also became a major factor in the recent departure of Groveland Police Chief Shawn Ramsey. City officials said Ramsey’s handling of the sergeant’s discipline was insufficient, and Ramsey was subsequently terminated by the city earlier this week.

The city has announced plans to bring in a third-party interim police chief to conduct a broader review of the Groveland Police Department, including its operations, policies and finances. Deputy Chief Armando Loney is currently serving as acting police chief, while Kevin Carroll has been named interim public safety director.

Jarrell’s resignation adds another development to what has become a significant period of change within Groveland’s police department.

The Clermont Current will continue to follow developments involving the Groveland Police Department and city leadership as additional information becomes available.