Nationwide — Pierce Cotton, a 32-year-old African American police officer from Pensacola, Florida, has been arrested for allegedly having sex without informing his partner that he is HIV-positive. He now faces a third-degree felony charge under state law for failing to disclose his status.
Cotton is accused of violating Florida Statute 384.24(2), which makes it illegal for anyone with HIV to engage in sexual activity without telling their partner and obtaining consent. The law aims to prevent the intentional spread of the virus.
According to Fox 10 TV, the Pensacola Police Department confirmed that Cotton is on administrative leave while an internal affairs investigation is ongoing. The department has not shared additional details about the incident.
Court and jail records show Cotton posted a $10,000 bond Friday afternoon and was released. His mugshot is exempt from public records under Florida law.
Cotton has a history of recognition for heroism. In February 2023, the department highlighted on Facebook that he received a Life Saving award for rescuing a man from a hotel pool drowning.
The investigation and legal proceedings will determine whether the charges against Cotton move forward.